Internship Program

Summary

IGA’s internship program seeks highly motivated individuals to join us for 10–15 hours per week as part-time research assistants during either the Fall, Spring, or Summer terms. Research assistants will work on the Independent America project, a research initiative that explores the advantages and implications of a more realistic and restrained US foreign policy. Through the program, interns will have ample opportunity to examine foreign affairs and tell compelling stories through a variety of digital mediums — social media, video, podcasts, newsletters, op-eds, and white papers.

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

The internship program is based in New York City, but candidates from outside the area are welcome to apply. Research assistants have the flexibility to work remotely and the opportunity to join us in our New York office, which we share with the Eurasia Group and GZERO Media. This position reports to IGA’s senior research associate & digital media manager but will work closely with other members of the team.

Dates

Responsibilities

• Conduct data analysis, outline, draft, and proof annual public opinion reports.
• Primary and secondary source research for white papers and editorials on a range of topics related to US foreign policy.
• Track global trends and major news headlines.
• Execute IGA’s social media strategy, which, depending on the skills and experience of the candidate, could include drafting daily social media conduct, producing short-form videos, designing infographics and other collateral, and keeping track of cross-platform trends.
• Manage the editorial calendar for IGA’s None Of The Above podcast, ensuring episodes are in alignment with the news cycle, key dates, and significant events.
• Support podcast and film production with scripting, note-taking, and archival research.
• Contribute to the writing and publishing of newsletters, as well as the organization’s other strategic communications efforts.

Qualifications

• Must be a current or recent undergraduate or graduate student.
• Demonstrated interest in digital media production or international relations.
• Sophisticated knowledge of key issues in contemporary US foreign policy and an openness to diverse viewpoints and research methodologies.
• Excellent communication, presentation, writing, and organizational skills. Must also have a keen eye for visual storytelling.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and move projects forward according to their timelines.
• Familiar with popular social media channels and strategic about using them to reach different audiences.
• General familiarity with graphic design, video, and audio software.

Compensation

We are able to offer interns $15/hour and work with their academic institution to receive course credit.