CSIS Internships & Careers 2026–2027: Launch Your Career in International Affairs and Public Policy

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is inviting talented students, recent graduates, researchers, and professionals to explore career and internship opportunities within one of the world’s leading policy research organizations. As a bipartisan, nonprofit think tank, CSIS brings together experts from diverse disciplines to develop practical policy solutions that address today’s most pressing global challenges.

Whether you are interested in international relations, public policy, security, economics, technology, climate, regional affairs, or global governance, CSIS offers an excellent environment to gain hands-on experience, strengthen research and analytical skills, and work alongside respected policy experts.

If you are passionate about shaping policy through evidence-based research and contributing to global dialogue, CSIS Internships and Careers provide an outstanding platform for professional growth.

About the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization dedicated to advancing practical solutions to complex international challenges.

CSIS conducts research, convenes global leaders, and provides independent analysis across a broad range of policy areas affecting governments, businesses, and civil society worldwide.

The organization is committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and informed policymaking while maintaining a workplace culture that values diverse perspectives and professional excellence.

Why Work at CSIS?

CSIS offers employees and interns the opportunity to contribute to meaningful policy research while developing valuable professional skills in a collaborative environment.

The organization emphasizes:

Evidence-based policy research
International collaboration
Professional development
Leadership growth
Ethical decision-making
Innovation
Inclusive workplace culture
Individual achievement alongside teamwork

Professionals at CSIS work on projects that influence public debate and inform policymakers on issues of global importance.

Career Opportunities

CSIS offers career pathways for individuals with different professional backgrounds and interests.

Primary career tracks include:

Research Careers

Research-focused professionals contribute to policy analysis, publications, strategic research, and program development across numerous international affairs topics.

Administrative Careers

Administrative professionals support the organization’s operations through functions such as:

Human Resources
Finance
Communications
Events
Operations
External Relations
Organizational Support

Both career tracks play an essential role in advancing CSIS’s mission.

CSIS Internship Programme

CSIS internships provide students and early-career professionals with practical exposure to policy research and think tank operations.

Interns work alongside experienced researchers and professional staff while developing valuable workplace skills in a mission-driven environment.

Internship experiences may include:

Research support
Policy analysis
Data collection
Event coordination
Writing and editing
Administrative assistance
Program support
Professional networking

Internships are designed to prepare participants for careers in international affairs, government, academia, nonprofit organizations, consulting, and public policy.

Professional Development at CSIS

One of the distinguishing features of working at CSIS is the organization’s commitment to employee and intern development through the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy (AILA).

About AILA

The Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy (AILA) was established to provide professional development opportunities for CSIS staff and interns.

Inspired by the leadership philosophies of:

David M. Abshire, CSIS Co-founder
Dr. Kazuo Inamori, Founder of Kyocera Corporation

AILA emphasizes:

Humility
Diligence
Forward-thinking leadership
Ethical decision-making
Professional excellence

Leadership Development Opportunities

AILA provides numerous learning opportunities throughout the year, including:

Leadership training
Ethics education
Foreign policy discussions
Skill-building workshops
Professional speaker series
Educational activities
Networking opportunities
Culture-building events

The programme takes a multidisciplinary approach to preparing participants for future leadership roles.

Learning Environment

Each year, AILA supports the professional growth of approximately:

100 junior and mid-level staff members
200 interns

Participants engage in programming designed to strengthen leadership abilities while expanding their understanding of international affairs and public policy.

Workplace Culture

CSIS promotes a collaborative and mission-driven work environment where employees are encouraged to:

Share diverse perspectives.
Collaborate across departments.
Develop professionally.
Pursue innovative solutions.
Demonstrate ethical leadership.
Contribute to meaningful policy discussions.

The organization values both teamwork and individual accomplishments.

Benefits of Working at CSIS

Depending on the position, professionals and interns may benefit from:

Professional development opportunities
Leadership training
Networking with policy experts
Exposure to international affairs
Collaborative workplace culture
Skill development workshops
Educational programming
Career advancement support

These opportunities help prepare participants for long-term careers in public policy and international affairs.

Who Should Apply?

CSIS welcomes applicants with diverse educational and professional backgrounds who are interested in solving global challenges through research, policy analysis, and organizational excellence.

Candidates with interests in areas such as:

International Relations
Public Policy
Political Science
Economics
Security Studies
Technology Policy
Climate Policy
Regional Studies
Communications
Business Administration
Nonprofit Management

may find opportunities aligned with their expertise and career goals.

Eligibility requirements vary depending on the specific vacancy.

How to Apply

Individuals interested in joining CSIS should:

Visit the CSIS Careers page.
Review current research and administrative vacancies.
Select a position that matches their qualifications and interests.
Submit the required application materials through the official recruitment process.
Follow any additional instructions provided for interviews or assessments.

Applicants are encouraged to monitor the careers page regularly, as opportunities are posted throughout the year.

Why Choose CSIS?

For individuals passionate about international affairs and evidence-based policymaking, CSIS offers an exceptional opportunity to work on issues that shape global conversations. Through meaningful research, professional development, leadership training, and collaboration with experienced experts, employees and interns gain valuable experience while contributing to practical solutions for complex international challenges.

Whether you are beginning your career or looking to advance your expertise in policy research, CSIS provides an environment where learning, innovation, and public service come together.

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