OPCW Opens Applications for Science Internship in the Office of Strategy and Policy – Apply By 16 May 2026

The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has announced applications for its Science Internship within the Office of Strategy and Policy (OSP). The internship offers students and recent graduates in scientific disciplines an opportunity to gain practical experience in an international organization working toward a world free of chemical weapons.

The programme is designed for motivated young professionals interested in science, policy, diplomacy, and international cooperation. Selected interns will contribute to analytical and strategic work related to science and technology developments that may influence the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention.

About the OPCW Internship Programme

The OPCW internship programme provides participants with direct exposure to the day-to-day operations of an international organization. Interns work alongside experts and professionals involved in global chemical disarmament, policy development, scientific analysis, and international diplomacy.

The Science Internship within the Office of Strategy and Policy focuses specifically on the intersection of science, emerging technologies, and international security. Interns will support scientific and strategic initiatives while developing professional, analytical, and communication skills.

The programme typically lasts between three and six months, and three internship positions are currently available with anticipated start dates from mid-July 2026.

Internship Focus Areas

The Office of Strategy and Policy plays a critical role in monitoring scientific and technological developments relevant to the Chemical Weapons Convention and the broader work of the OPCW.

Interns will gain exposure to:

• Science and technology policy
• International scientific cooperation
• Strategic analysis
• Diplomacy and multilateral engagement
• Research and technical communication
• Outreach and stakeholder engagement

The internship is tailored to each participant’s academic background and skill set, allowing interns to pursue individualized learning objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Selected interns will support a range of scientific and policy-related activities, including:

• Assisting with Science for Diplomats events designed to communicate scientific topics to policymakers and diplomats
• Monitoring emerging developments in science and technology relevant to chemical security and disarmament
• Conducting research on scientific and technical topics
• Supporting the work of the OPCW Scientific Advisory Board and related working groups
• Assisting in the preparation of:
  • Reports
  • Briefing notes
  • Presentations
  • Outreach materials
• Designing graphics and layouts for internal and external communication materials
• Participating in meetings, conferences, and organizational events where applicable

The internship combines scientific research with policy communication, making it particularly valuable for students interested in science diplomacy and international governance.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be enrolled in a university degree programme in a scientific discipline and have completed at least one year of study
• OR be enrolled in a graduate degree programme
• OR have graduated from a scientific discipline within one year before the internship start date
• Be a citizen of an OPCW Member State

The OPCW notes that applications from non-scientific backgrounds will not be considered.

Preferred Academic Backgrounds

While applicants from all scientific disciplines are eligible, a background in chemical sciences is considered advantageous.

Relevant fields may include:

• Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Chemical Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Biotechnology
• Materials Science
• Molecular Sciences
• Related scientific disciplines

Skills and Competencies

The OPCW is seeking candidates with strong analytical and communication skills, as well as an interest in emerging technologies and their applications in chemical contexts.

Desired competencies include:

• Research and analytical skills
• Communication and presentation abilities
• Problem-solving capabilities
• Graphic design and document preparation skills
• Time management and teamwork
• Interest in science policy and diplomacy

Language Requirements

Fluency in English is essential for the internship. Knowledge of another official OPCW language is considered an advantage, particularly:

• Arabic
• Chinese
• French
• Russian
• Spanish

Internship Conditions

Interns selected for the programme will receive a monthly stipend of 540 Euros. However, participants are responsible for covering several personal expenses, including:

• Travel costs
• Accommodation
• Visa expenses
• Insurance
• Living expenses
• Repatriation costs

Interns may also be required to demonstrate proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of the internship in Netherlands.

The internship follows the normal OPCW working schedule of up to 40 hours per week.

Why This Opportunity Matters

The OPCW Science Internship offers an exceptional pathway for young scientists seeking experience in international organizations, science diplomacy, and policy-oriented research.

Participants will benefit from:

• Exposure to global scientific and diplomatic processes
• Networking opportunities with international experts
• Practical experience in science policy and strategic analysis
• Opportunities to contribute to global chemical security initiatives
• Enhanced understanding of multilateral governance and international cooperation

The internship is especially suitable for students and graduates aiming to pursue careers in international organizations, scientific policy advisory roles, global governance, or security-related scientific research.

Application Deadline

Interested applicants must submit their applications before:

• 16 May 2026

Applications must be submitted through the OPCW CandidateSpace portal. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel

Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.