Russia Program Research Fall 2026 Internship

Foundation for Defense of Democracies•Washington, DC

1d•$1,000 - $2,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) is a Washington, DC-based nonpartisan research institute focusing on national security and foreign policy. FDD conducts in-depth research, produces accurate and timely analyses, identifies illicit activities, and provides policy options – all with the aim of strengthening U.S. national security and reducing or eliminating threats posed by adversaries and enemies of the United States and other free nations. FDD does not accept donations from any foreign governments. The Foundation for Defense of Democracies offers a variety of internship opportunities designed to provide meaningful professional development. Interns participate in a twice-monthly speaker series featuring senior staff members in a small-group setting and are encouraged to strengthen their academic and analytical skills through close collaboration with FDD scholars and experts. The organization offers stipends and can assist students seeking academic credit; however, stipend eligibility requirements must be met. FDD provides both hybrid and remote internship options. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. It is recommended that interested candidates submit applications early. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Requirements

Must have at least a 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
Should have a relevant course of study and have completed coursework in any of the following fields: International Relations, Security Studies, History, Communications, Journalism, International Economics, Political Science. Computer science, and/or a relevant STEM field of study.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, including Word, as well as basic Excel skills.
Must be able to commit to a minimum of 22 hours per week.
Must be eligible to work in the United States.
Resume/CV
Cover letter (Please review our website and include which FDD projects and issue areas resonate with you and why. Also indicate where you found this internship and your availability for the semester.)
Writing Sample (no more than 3 pages)
Unofficial transcript copy

Nice To Haves

Ability to conduct research in a foreign language - particularly Russian or Ukrainian.

Responsibilities

Conduct research on projects related to Russia under the deputy director of FDD's Russia Program.
Focus projects on topics including the Russian military, Russia's war in Ukraine, and Western economic warfare with Russia.