Military & Political Power Research Fall 2026 Internship

About the role

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) is seeking motivated interns for its Center on Military and Political Power (CMPP) for the Fall 2026 term. Interns will support research and analysis on U.S. defense strategy and policy, working directly with CMPP Senior Director Bradley Bowman.

Key responsibilities

• Assist senior staff on projects related to defense strategy, policy, and capability assessments.
• Conduct literature reviews, data collection, and synthesis of open‑source information.
• Draft briefing memos, policy briefs, and analytical reports.
• Participate in the twice‑monthly speaker series and contribute to internal discussions.

Required profile

• Minimum 3.2 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
• Enrolled in or recently completed coursework in International Relations, Security Studies, History, Communications, Journalism, International Economics, Political Science, Computer Science, or a related STEM field.
• Eligibility to work in the United States.
• Ability to commit at least 22 hours per week.

Required skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Word.
• Basic skills in Microsoft Excel.

What we offer

• Stipend (subject to eligibility requirements).
• Assistance with academic credit.
• Hybrid and remote work options.
• Professional development through speaker series and close collaboration with FDD scholars.