Democratizing Foreign Policy Research Intern

The Institute is seeking a research intern for our Democratizing Foreign Policy program, where the intern will work on the issues of Pentagon spending, money in politics, and the ways in which foreign governments and Pentagon contractors seek to influence U.S. foreign policy. Candidates should have an interest in these issues as well as strong research and writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Research and writing of op-eds and articles as needed
• Research on U.S. policies relating to arms transfers, including consequences of U.S. sales and statistical research on major arms suppliers
• Research on foreign governments and Pentagon contractors lobbying for arms sales, U.S. military bases abroad, and, generally, the militarization of U.S. foreign policy
• Research on U.S. national security strategy and force posture with an eye towards crafting alternative approaches
• Conduct primary research on Pentagon contractors and the economic impacts of Pentagon spending–including investigating tradeoffs with other forms of government spending–for reports and policy briefs
• Investigate the influence of the military industrial complex on U.S. foreign policy

Requirements

• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Ability to work with and interpret primary documents
• Basic skills in data collection, database management, and basic statistical analysis
• Exemplary attention to detail and excellent writing skills (a record of published writing is preferred)
• Demonstrate a keen interest in the restraint-oriented approach of the Quincy Institute and thrive in a dynamic and entrepreneurial environment
• General administrative work for the Quincy Institute, as needed
• The candidate must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in political science, international relations, regional studies, or a related field, or be a recent graduate in these areas
• Proficient in basic technical skills, including Google Suite. Advanced understanding of data analysis and using generative AI for research are a plus

Compensation and Term

$18.40 - $18.40 an hour

Interns will be able to work remotely or from the Quincy Institute’s Washington, DC office. The pay for this position is $18.40 per hour and is for an average of 19 hours per week. The initial term of the internship is three months but can be extended based on performance.

Closing Date

The application closes on November 15, 2026 (11:59 pm). To be considered, applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and a writing sample (preferably a non-academic writing sample).

Start Date

Interns hired for this position will begin work in mid-January 2027

About

The Quincy Institute (QI) Internship Program provides an opportunity for undergraduate, graduate students, and recent graduates from diverse backgrounds to engage in career exploration and development. The mission of QI’s Internship Program is to provide students and recent graduates a meaningful and practical work experience related to the student’s field of study or career interest. Interns will have the opportunity to attend internal meetings, attend external as well as QI events online or in-person.