Research & Communications Intern, Independent America — Summer 2026

Summary

IGA seeks highly motivated individuals to join our internship program as part-time Research & Communications Interns (10–15 hours per week) during the fall, spring, or summer terms. Interns will support Independent America, a research initiative exploring the advantages and implications of a more realistic and restrained US foreign policy. The role offers the opportunity to engage deeply with contemporary foreign affairs while helping translate complex ideas into accessible, compelling public-facing content across a range of formats — including social media, video, podcasts, newsletters, op-eds, and white papers.

The ideal candidate is an undergraduate or graduate student with academic or professional experience in international relations, political science, global studies, history, or a related field. Applicants with backgrounds in journalism, communications, film, television, or digital media are also encouraged to apply. Candidates should be mission-driven and self-directed; strong writers and strategic thinkers comfortable distilling complex policy documents and research findings into clearly structured summaries. An aptitude for data analysis is desirable. Experience with graphic design, social media platforms, and narrative or journalistic writing is strongly preferred.

The internship is based in New York City. While candidates from outside the area are welcome to apply, preference will be given to applicants who are able to work in a hybrid capacity and spend time in our New York office, which we share with Eurasia Group and GZERO Media. Interns may work remotely and should be comfortable collaborating across both in-person and virtual settings.

This position reports to IGA’s Program Coordinator and works closely with other members of the IGA team.

Dates

About the Role

Interns contribute to research and communications projects that support IGA’s public-facing work. The role offers hands-on experience across research, editorial, and digital production processes. We seek candidates who are organized, intellectually curious, and professional in collaborative settings.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Conduct data analysis and contribute to the outlining, drafting, and editing of IGA’s annual public opinion reports.
• Undertake primary and secondary source research for white papers, policy briefs, and editorials on topics related to US foreign policy.
• Monitor global trends and major news developments to inform research and content strategy.
• Support and execute IGA’s social media strategy, including drafting platform-specific content, producing short-form video, designing infographics and digital collateral, and tracking cross-platform engagement.
• Manage the editorial calendar for IGA’s None Of The Above podcast, ensuring alignment with the news cycle and key policy developments.
• Support podcast and film production through scripting assistance, note-taking, and archival research.
• Contribute to the drafting and publication of newsletters and other strategic communications materials.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Current or recent undergraduate or graduate student.
• Demonstrated interest in international relations, digital media production, or related fields.
• Strong understanding of key issues in contemporary US foreign policy, with openness to diverse viewpoints and research approaches.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong organizational abilities, and an eye for visual storytelling.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet established deadlines.
• Familiarity with major social media platforms and audience engagement strategies.
• Working knowledge of graphic design, video, or audio production software.

Compensation

Interns receive $17 per hour. We are also happy to coordinate with an academic institution to facilitate course credit, where applicable.

Application Instructions

To apply, please complete the application form below and submit a cover letter, resume, two writing samples (maximum five pages each), and contact information for two to three references. Your cover letter should describe your interest in the mission of the Institute for Global Affairs and the Independent America program.

Please direct any questions to Lucas Robinson, Program Coordinator, at robinson@instituteforglobalaffairs.org. We review every application carefully and strive to keep applicants informed throughout the process. While we may not be able to respond individually to every submission, we endeavor to share updates in a timely manner.

To apply, please submit your materials directly via this standalone form.