The International Institute for Strategic Studies is inviting applications for a paid External Relations Internship in its Washington DC office for Spring 2026. This part time, office based role is designed for students and recent graduates who want practical exposure to policy engagement, stakeholder outreach, events, and institutional communications in a leading security think tank. Below is a clean, research based brief that covers the role profile, required skills, workload and pay, what the day to day looks like, and a step by step application guide.
IISS External Relations Internship Spring 2026 Quick summary
Field |
Information |
|---|---|
Organisation |
International Institute for Strategic Studies, IISS Americas |
Role |
External Relations Intern, Spring 2026 |
Location |
Washington DC, in office with local residency required |
Schedule |
Approximately 20 hours per week, mid January to mid May 2026 |
Compensation |
18 USD per hour |
Focus |
External relations, events, membership support, stakeholder outreach, database updates, light research |
Eligibility |
Rising juniors, seniors, or recent graduates, legally able to work in the United States |
Preferred fields |
International relations, security studies, political science, public policy, communications |
Application items |
Resume or CV, targeted cover letter |
Deadline |
5 November 2025 at 7:00 PM Eastern Time |
Official site |
About the International Institute for Strategic Studies
The International Institute for Strategic Studies is a globally recognised think tank that produces independent analysis on defense, security, and geopolitics. IISS convenes high level dialogues, publishes data driven research, and advises decision makers in government, international organisations, and industry. The Washington DC office, IISS Americas, serves as a transatlantic hub that deepens engagement on US foreign policy, defense strategy, and security cooperation.
Internship overview
The External Relations Internship gives early career professionals hands on experience at the intersection of research, events, communications, and member engagement. Interns support daily operations that keep the DC office running smoothly and contribute to outreach that connects IISS analysis with policy audiences. The role blends administrative reliability with thoughtful communications, and it offers an inside view of how a major think tank builds partnerships and convenes timely discussions.
Term and hours
- Duration of about four months, ideally mid January to mid May 2026
- Part time up to 20 hours per week with a predictable weekly rhythm tied to events and outreach cycles
Compensation
- 18 USD per hour, paid on a regular payroll schedule
Work setting
- DC based presence expected to support events, logistics, materials, and in person coordination
Core responsibilities
- Office and operations support: Maintain calendars, track tasks, and ensure event logistics are executed on time
- Constituent database updates: Clean and enrich contact records for members, congressional offices, agencies, and partners
- Event coordination: Help plan in person and hybrid events, manage guest lists, prepare run of show and name badges, support onsite registration, and assist with post event follow up
- Membership and outreach: Draft communications, update lists, and coordinate touchpoints that sustain member and stakeholder relationships
- Light research and brief preparation: Conduct ad hoc background research, gather public information, and support staff with concise notes and materials for external engagement
What success looks like
- Clear and timely communications with staff, speakers, and guests
- Meticulous data entry and list hygiene so invitations and follow ups reach the right people
- Professional event support with smooth check in and accurate headcounts
- Polished short memos and concise email drafts appropriate for senior audiences
- Reliable schedule management and on time task delivery
Candidate profile and skills
Education and background
- Rising junior, senior, or recent graduate in international relations, security studies, political science, public policy, communications, or related fields
Core skills
- Strong writing and copy editing, comfort drafting short professional emails and event materials
- Excellent organisation, attention to detail, and the ability to juggle multiple tasks without losing accuracy
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, basic comfort with CRM or spreadsheet based contact management
- Professional demeanor for front of house event support and stakeholder interactions
- Demonstrated interest in international security and US foreign policy
Work authorisation
- Candidates must be legally eligible to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship or work permit assistance is not available for this internship.
How to apply
Prepare a focused package that shows relevant skills and motivation.
- Resume or CV
- One page preferred, two pages acceptable if experience warrants
- Highlight event support, outreach, research assistance, writing, and data management
- Cover letter
- One page addressed to IISS Americas
- Explain why external relations work appeals to you, what you bring to events and stakeholder engagement, and how your interests align with IISS focus areas
- Submission
- Apply through the IISS careers portal using the application link on the official site
- Submit by 5 November 2025 at 7:00 PM Eastern Time
Selection flow
- Application screening for baseline fit and clarity of motivation
- Interview that explores communications judgment, task prioritisation, and event scenarios
- Reference checks as needed
Practical tips to strengthen your application
- Show evidence of logistics reliability such as conference staffing, campus events, or internship based event work
- Demonstrate stakeholder professionalism through examples of coordinating speakers, VIP attendees, or multi party meetings
- Quantify where possible, for example number of events supported, average attendance, number of invitees managed
- Keep language concise and free of jargon, focus on outcomes you helped achieve
- Align your availability with the internship window and confirm DC area residency for the term
Professional development benefits
- Exposure to the Washington policy ecosystem and international security dialogues
- Hands on experience with membership relations, outreach cadence, and event lifecycles
- Opportunities to sit in on select public sessions subject to capacity
- Mentoring and feedback on communications and event production best practices
Frequently asked questions
1) Is this internship paid
Yes. Compensation is 18 USD per hour.
2) What are the expected hours
Up to 20 hours per week across the mid January to mid May 2026 period. Event weeks may require specific day and time commitments.
3) Do I need to live in Washington DC
Yes. The role requires DC area residency for the duration of the internship in order to support onsite events and office operations.
4) Is the internship open to international students
Only candidates already authorised to work in the United States can be considered. Sponsorship is not available.
5) Can I apply if I graduate in December 2025
Yes. Recent graduates are eligible provided they meet the other requirements and can commit to the schedule.
Final note
This internship suits applicants who are detail oriented, service minded, and eager to learn how a top tier think tank connects research with decision makers. If you can manage lists with precision, communicate clearly under time pressure, and bring a steady hand to events and outreach, the External Relations Internship at IISS Americas offers valuable experience and professional growth in one of the most dynamic policy environments in the world.
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