Research Intern - Freeman Chair in China Studies (Fall 2026)

JOB SUMMARY

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a non-profit, bipartisan public policy organization established in 1962 to provide strategic insights and practical policy solutions to decision makers concerned with global security and prosperity. Over the years, it has grown to be one of the largest organizations of its kind, with a staff of some 275 employees, including more than 120 analysts working to address the changing dynamics of international security across the globe.

The CSIS Freeman Chair in China Studies is a leading source of insight and analysis on China’s evolving political system, domestic agenda, and foreign policy. Our work focuses on leadership politics, policymaking and decision-making processes, party-state governance, political discourse and the role of ideology, sources of political stability and risk, and how these dynamics affect the broader world. 

The Freeman Chair in China Studies is seeking an intern who can provide dedicated support for research on China’s domestic politics and foreign policy, as well as Taiwan and cross-Strait issues, for three months starting immediately. This is an in-person, paid position. We will consider candidates seeking a part-time or full-time internship. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

A competitive candidate will have significant knowledge on China’s domestic politics and foreign policy, as well as familiarity with the U.S.-China relationship. The ideal candidate will also have familiarity with how to find and analyze primary source Chinese-language documents. Because of the fast-paced work environment, interns should be motivated self-starters that are able to engage in a wide variety of analytic and logistical tasks. The successful candidate will be an exceptional writer. 

Core responsibilities include: 

• Assisting in research, analysis, and writing for articles, event preparation, outreach and promotion, and other projects; 
• Developing content for the Freeman Chair’s social media platforms; 
• Reviewing Chinese-English translations for accuracy and precision; 
• Monitoring Chinese-language media sources and reports; and 
• Performing a variety of other duties as assigned. 

KNOWLEDGE, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Current undergraduate seniors, graduate students, and recent graduates. Applicants that are currently enrolled in or have recently completed a master’s degree are preferred. 
• Must have superior research, analysis, and writing skills. 
• Must demonstrate academic or professional background in China’s domestic politics and foreign policy. 
• Must have advanced Chinese-language reading and research skills. 
• Must have a proactive work ethic, positive attitude, and superior communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Must have the ability to manage competing priorities and multiple projects under tight deadlines. 
• Must be eligible to work in the United States.

HOW TO APPLY: 

Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Please apply at https://www.csis.org/about/careers-culture/careers by no later than September 25, 2026. All applicants must submit the following as a single PDF file under the "Resume" field: 

1. Resume/CV (one page). 
2. Cover letter. 
3. A brief (no more than 3 pages) writing sample demonstrating the applicant’s policy analysis and written communication skills.
4. A list of 2 references (including name, title, affiliation, email address, and phone number).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK CONDITIONS

The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee working in an office environment.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
 
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.
 
Equal Opportunity Employer.