Intern - Freeman Chair in China Studies (Spring 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 250 employees, including more than 120 analysts working to address the changing dynamics of international security across the globe.   The Freeman Chair in China Studies at CSIS is seeking an intern who can provide dedicated support for research on Taiwan’s diplomatic strategy and cross-Strait issues, as well as China’s domestic politics and foreign policy, during the period from January 5, 2026 to April 3, 2026. This is an in-person, paid position. We will consider candidates seeking a part-time or full-time internship.   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.   A competitive candidate will have substantive knowledge on Taiwan’s contemporary politics and efforts to expand Taiwan’s international space, as well as cross-Strait issues and the U.S.-Taiwan relationship. The ideal candidate will also have knowledge of Chinese politics and foreign policy, and 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.    The hired candidates will be paid hourly, commensurate with experience ($18.00/hour for current undergraduate hires, $19.00/hour for hires with a bachelor’s degree, and $20.00/hour for hires with a master’s degree).   ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Essential functions may include, but are not limited to the following:   • Assisting in research, analysis, and writing for articles, event summaries, outreach and promotion, and other projects  • Review Chinese-English translations for accuracy and precision • Monitoring regional media sources and reports  • Performing a variety of other duties as assigned     KNOWLEDGE, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE:   The position requires the following skills 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/professional background in Taiwan and cross-Strait issues. Additional experience with Chinese domestic politics or foreign policy is preferred. • 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. • Experience with data analysis is preferred. • Prior work or study experience in Taiwan or China is preferred.  • Must be eligible to work in the United States.   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.   HOW TO APPLY:    Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Please apply at https://careers.csis.org/ by no later than November 21, 2026. All applicants must submit the following in one PDF document: 1. Resume/CV (one page). 2. Cover letter. 3. A short (no more than 3 pages) writing sample demonstrating the applicant’s policy analysis and written communication skills.  4. A list of 2 references (including reference’s name, title, affiliation, email address, and phone number). Should you have any inquiries about the position, please email mknaak@csis.org.