Geospatial Intelligence and National Security Technologies Internship

Job Description

About the Role
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) is offering a Geospatial Intelligence and National Security Technologies Internship, committed to training the next generation of national security leaders. This internship focuses on using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies to improve research collection, intelligence analysis, and visualizations. Interns will help refine how ISW’s analysts implement these cutting-edge tools, gaining practical hands-on experience in national security and intelligence applications to directly inform policymakers.

What You’ll Do
• Use Geographic Information Systems (GIS), satellite remote sensing, and data visualization to help refine how ISW’s analysts implement cutting-edge tools
• Support data collection, analysis, and visualizations that support ISW’s world-renowned maps

You’re a Good Fit If You
• Are a motivated and organized college student or recent graduate with demonstrated expertise in a related field
• Possess excellent writing, editing, and oral communication skills
• Possess strong capabilities in GIS software such as Esri’s ArcGIS Pro, ArcMap, or ArcGIS Online
• Display the ability to conduct complex tasks in a timely and efficient manner
• Are self-motivated, independent, creative, and capable of working in a dynamic and fast-paced environment
• Are authorized to work in the United States and be physically present in the United States during your internship tenure
• Are eligible for and obtain CPT authorization if you attend a US university on a student visa
• Show commitment to—and interest in—the core mission and values of ISW

Bonus Qualifications
• Experience with SQL or ArcGIS Python (Arcpy)
• Have a demonstrated interest or expertise in national security issues, particularly Russia, Ukraine, China, or issues in the Middle East

Role Highlights & Compensation
• Offered in-person, remote, and hybrid for Fall 2026
• Opportunity to analyze conflicts in ways that directly inform policymakers on pressing American national security issues
• Work directly with analysts
• Receive classroom education and regular leadership engagement
• Chance to work with cutting-edge technologies employed in business and the intelligence community
• Opportunity to stand at the front lines of military research and policy development
• May have valuable interactions with software partners, including Neo4J, Babel Street, Ntrepid, and Planet Labs
• Further training on national security technology platforms
• Full-time internship (five days per week), with part-time work considered on a case-by-case basis
• Internships start September 8, 2026, and run until December 11
• Working remotely outside of the United States is not authorized
• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until July 24, 2026
• Academic credit for internships can be gained where applicable
• Up to a $1,000 monthly living stipend available as part of a scholarship program
• Scholarship is classified as taxable income