Research Internship, Physics and Engineering, Spring 2026

Hudson Institute•Washington, DC

42d•Onsite

About The Position

Hudson Institute is seeking an intern looking to gain experience in analysis of new classes of space weapons that could impact space and terrestrial warfare. This intern will support the development of research and analysis for the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology team. The intern will assess, through modeling and simulation, the characteristics and performance of new classes of space weapons and their impact on space and terrestrial warfare. The intern will model and/or simulate constellations of the space weapons, assess the sensor, effector, and communications performance of the systems, and consider space launch dynamics. This intern will also peruse archival and contemporary material related to the new classes of space weapons. Lastly, this intern will prepare materials for wargames with US and allied participants. In addition to being exposed to critical issues in the aforementioned subject areas, interns will spend significant time discussing these issues with their expert(s), assisting with workshops and wargames, and attending Hudson Institute public events, as well as intern-specific events featuring Hudson scholars and experts across Washington, DC. This internship provides a $3,000 stipend.

Requirements

Candidates should be recent graduates or current students working towards a degree in physics, astrophysics, aerospace engineering, mathematics, computer science, or a related field.
Candidates should have a demonstrated interest in U.S. security and defense strategy.
Candidates should be able to work independently, manage their time wisely, and meet deadlines.
Candidates should be detail-focused, reliable, professional, and possess strong research, writing, editing, and analysis skills, as well as excellent communication, and interpersonal skills.
Candidates should be proficient in all Microsoft Office applications.
Candidates must be able to work a minimum of 20 hours per week.
Remote work is not an option for this position. Please indicate that you intend to work in-person in your cover letter.

Nice To Haves

aerospace engineering
math
programming
astrophysics
orbital mechanics

Responsibilities

Assess, through modeling and simulation, the characteristics and performance of new classes of space weapons and their impact on space and terrestrial warfare.
Model and/or simulate constellations of the space weapons, assess the sensor, effector, and communications performance of the systems, and consider space launch dynamics.
Peruse archival and contemporary material related to the new classes of space weapons.
Prepare materials for wargames with US and allied participants.