CSIS Opens Paid Internship in Economic Security & Technology for Spring 2026 (Stipend 18-20$/Hour)

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has announced a paid full-time internship opportunity in its Economic Security and Technology (EST) Department for Spring 2026, based in Washington, D.C.

This internship offers hands-on experience at the intersection of U.S. economic security, global technology competition, and geopolitics, making it a strong opportunity for students and early-career professionals interested in policy research, data analysis, and technology strategy.

About CSIS

Founded in 1962, CSIS is a non-profit, bipartisan public policy organization recognized globally for providing strategic insights on international security and global prosperity.

With over 250 staff members, including more than 120 policy analysts, CSIS plays a key role in shaping discussions around technology, trade, national security, and global economic relations.

About the Economic Security and Technology (EST) Department

The EST Department serves as a center of excellence focused on how economic policy and advanced technologies shape national and global security.

Its work covers:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies

• Semiconductors and digital infrastructure

• Trade, investment, and intellectual property

• Cybersecurity, quantum technologies, and innovation policy

• U.S. economic relations with China and global partners

The department produces influential research products such as the Tech Edge Report, country economic security studies, and the “Betting on America” podcast.

Key Responsiblities

The selected intern will support research, data analysis, and policy writing across multiple EST initiatives. This role is designed for candidates who enjoy working with data, ideas, and real-world policy challenges.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting day-to-day research activities of the EST team

• Collecting, cleaning, and analyzing economic and technology datasets

• Conducting literature reviews on trade, innovation, and industrial policy

• Drafting policy memos for the Betting on America podcast and senior staff briefings

• Collaborating with researchers on time-sensitive policy projects

Eligiblity Crieteria

This internship is well suited for candidates with a strong interest in technology policy, global trade, finance, and geopolitics.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required (Master’s degree or progress toward one is a plus)

• Prior research experience in:

  • International trade and finance, and/or

  • U.S. technology and innovation policy

• Working knowledge of Excel (pivot tables, charts, formulas)

• Familiarity with data tools such as Python, R, or Stata preferred

• Excellent English writing, research, and analytical skills

• Ability to work in person at the CSIS Washington office

Preference will be given to applicants able to commit to a full-time, in-person, 6-month internship.

Pay & Benefits

This is a paid internship, with hourly compensation based on education level:

• $18/hour – Current undergraduate students

• $19/hour – Candidates with a bachelor’s degree

• $20/hour – Candidates with a master’s degree

Interns gain exposure to high-impact policy research, senior-level discussions, and the broader mission of CSIS.

Application Process

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Interested candidates must submit one combined PDF containing:

• Résumé

• Cover letter

• Writing sample (3–5 pages on a relevant topic)

• One professional reference

Applications must be submitted through careers.csis.org. Additional materials may be requested later in the selection process.

Why This Internship Stands Out

• Work at a top global think tank in Washington, D.C.

• Gain real experience in economic security and technology policy

• Paid opportunity with exposure to senior policymakers and analysts

• Ideal stepping stone for careers in policy, international relations, and tech strategy

For students and graduates aiming to build careers at the crossroads of technology, economics, and global security, the CSIS Economic Security and Technology Internship (Spring 2026) offers a rare and highly competitive opportunity inside one of the world’s most respected policy institutions.

Visit Official Website For Apply