Spring 2027 Cyber and Technology Innovation Internship

Foundation for Defense of Democracies•Washington, DC

3d•$1,000 - $2,000

About The Position

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), a Washington, DC-based nonpartisan research institute focused on national security and foreign policy, is seeking interns for its Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation (CCTI) for Spring 2027. CCTI promotes understanding among the U.S. government, private sector, and allied countries of the national security and economic opportunities and threats arising from the expanding technological environment. Interns will work closely with CCTI Director Annie Fixler, Senior Policy Analyst Jiwon Ma, and CCTI Senior Director RADM (ret.) Mark Montgomery. The internship involves research on U.S. adversaries’ cyber capabilities and intentions, and on policy and technological solutions to related challenges. Internships may be part-time or full-time. FDD provides hybrid and remote options, though in-person interns are preferred; virtual participants will be considered equally. FDD’s internship program offers professional development, including a twice-monthly small-group speaker series with senior staff and opportunities to collaborate with FDD scholars and experts. The organization offers stipends subject to eligibility requirements and can assist students seeking academic credit. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with a stated deadline of midnight Thursday, November 5, 2026. Applicants must submit a resume or CV, cover letter, writing sample of no more than three pages, and unofficial transcript. The cover letter should identify relevant FDD projects and issue areas, explain why they resonate, state where the applicant found the internship and their semester availability, and specify preferred departments.

Requirements

At least a 3.2 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
Relevant course of study, with completed coursework in one or more of the following: international relations, security studies, history, communications, journalism, international economics, political science, computer science, or a relevant STEM field.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, including Word, and basic Excel skills.
Ability to commit to a minimum of 22 hours per week.
Must be eligible to work in the United States.
Interest in the intersection of cyber, national security, and economic power.
Ability to work independently and as a member of a team.

Nice To Haves

Understanding of computer networking.
Understanding of cybersecurity best practices.
Experience writing for government audiences.
Previous research on cyber-related topics.
Experience on Capitol Hill.
Responsive, self-motivated, and able to learn and work quickly.

Responsibilities

Conduct research on the cyber capabilities and intentions of U.S. adversaries.
Research policy and technological solutions to cybersecurity and technology challenges.
Work closely with CCTI leadership and staff.
Collaborate with FDD scholars and experts and participate in the internship program’s professional development activities.