The Critical Threats Project (CTP), led by Senior Fellow Frederick W. Kagan, tracks and analyzes current and emerging challenges to American national security. The internship will work with Africa Team Lead Liam Karr to focus on supporting the project’s research efforts on US national security interests in Africa, including state powers state powers such as China, Iran, and Russia, as well as non-state groups like the Islamic State and al Qaeda. Research will include open-source tracking and analysis of key state and non-state actors and related political and security dynamics across the continent, with a special focus on the Horn of Africa, West Africa, and the Great Lakes region. Interns will assist in research and production tasks for the weekly Africa File, mapping updates, and other long-term projects.

The internship includes educational modules for developing intelligence analysis tradecraft. Interested candidates should demonstrate strong writing and analytical skills, the ability to conduct independent research, and the ability to work on a team. Initiative, dedication to the project’s mission, work ethic, technological proficiency, creativity, and a genuine interest in Africa are highly valued. The ability to read and conduct research in French, Arabic, or other commonly spoken languages on the continent is a plus but not required.

Candidates who can intern 40 hours per week are preferred. Hours must fall within normal business hours in Eastern Time from Monday through Friday. Please include your weekly availability for the position in your cover letter.

The start dates for the spring program are January 7 and January 14. While the AEI Internship Program and all related programming will take place in-person in Washington, DC this spring, virtual interns may be accepted on a case by case basis. Please include your prefered start date and note your in-person/virtual preference in your cover letter.  Please note that a cover letter and writing sample are both required, in order for your application to be considered complete.

About AEI Internships

AEI internships offer a unique opportunity for undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates to gain experience in research, writing, business, and communications at one of the nation’s leading think tanks. Competitive candidates will generally have a 3.4 GPA or higher from a top-ranking college or university. The AEI internship program runs 12 weeks. Please see the internship program home page for updates about the program.