Paid Internship Opportunity! The Wilson Center’s Middle East Program 2025: Apply Now!!
Internships with the Middle East Program
The Wilson Center’s Middle East Program serves as a crucial resource for the policymaking community and beyond, providing analyses and research that helps inform US foreign policymaking, stimulates public debate, and expands knowledge about issues in the wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Internship Opportunity: Middle East Program
The Middle East Program is seeking interns to support project activities for 20 hours per week. This paid internship offers a unique opportunity to work directly with experienced program staff at one of the world’s leading think tanks, gaining invaluable exposure to international public policy experts and practitioners.
Location: Washington, D.C. (in-person only)
Duration: Fall (September – December), Spring (January – April), Summer (May – August)
Internship Overview
Selected candidates will gain hands-on experience in policymaking dynamics and operations, engaging with diverse community voices and experiences in the region. The selection committee prioritizes candidates with a demonstrated interest in Middle East issues and policy, looking to enhance their professional skills.
Key Responsibilities
Administrative and Logistical (40% of workload):
- Proofread and publish articles, event announcements, and updates on the Middle East Program website.
- Manage and update the contact list database for program staff.
- Maintain the Middle East Program website.
- Assist in organizing public events, including managing RSVPs and messaging.
Research and Writing (40% of workload):
- Conduct an independent research project on an approved topic, culminating in an op-ed for the Middle East Program’s Viewpoints series.
- Support program staff with data collection, analysis, and summarization of research materials.
- Proofread and edit written content for publication on the website.
Social Media and Communications (20% of workload):
- Draft emails for the program’s distribution list regarding events and publications.
- Create visual content such as audiograms, promotional videos, and infographics.
- Post updates about publications and events on Twitter and Facebook.
Eligibility Requirements
- Demonstrated interest in Middle East issues, preferably with relevant coursework or experience.
- Strong qualitative and quantitative research skills.
- Excellent writing and editing capabilities.
- Experience with social media management and creating promotional content is preferred but not required.
- Strong communication skills; advanced proficiency in Arabic, Hebrew, Farsi, Turkish, or Kurdish is a plus.
- Applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate program, recent graduates (within the last year), or accepted into a graduate program.
- International students must hold a valid F-1 or J-1 visa and obtain work authorization. Written permission from the Designated School Official or Responsible Visa Officer is required.
Application Deadlines
- Fall: July 15
- Spring: November 15
- Summer: March 15
Application Procedure
To apply, please submit the following materials as a single PDF file:
- Resume
- Cover letter outlining your contributions and goals for the internship
- 5-7 page writing sample (an excerpt is acceptable)
In the subject line of your email, include your last name and the internship cycle you are applying for (e.g., “Smith Internship Application Summer 2023”). Clearly state your availability and whether you are based in Washington, D.C.
Submit all materials via email to: [email protected]
Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. The Wilson Center is an equal opportunity employer and adheres to equal opportunity employment guidelines in the selection of interns.
