The Critical Threats Project (CTP), led by Senior Fellow Frederick W. Kagan, tracks and analyzes current and emerging challenges to American national security in concert with its partner organization the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). Interns will support analysis of the ongoing Israel-Hamas War, Iran’s Axis of Resistance, and Iranian regional activities and domestic politics. Interns will be responsible for monitoring regional media, translating, assisting with and conducting research, orally briefing analysis, and contributing to CTP's daily Iran Update. The internship includes educational modules for developing intelligence analysis tradecraft.

Qualifications

• Strong writing, analytical, and critical thinking skills are required.
• Previous research experience, specifically related to the Middle East, is highly preferred.
• The ability to work both in a team and independently is required.
• A demonstrated interest in international relations, Iran, the Middle East, and defense policy is required.
• Openness to constructive feedback is required.
• Initiative, dedication to CTP’s mission, a strong work ethic, and creativity are highly valued.
• The ability to read and conduct research in regional languages (including Turkish, Kurdish, Persian, Arabic, or Hebrew) is highly desired 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.