Research Assistant Intern

Job Description

About the Company (CSIS)

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a non-profit, bipartisan public policy organization established in 1962. Its core mission is to provide strategic insights and practical policy solutions to decision-makers focused on global security and prosperity. CSIS has grown to be one of the largest organizations of its kind, boasting a staff of approximately 275 employees, including more than 120 analysts dedicated to addressing the evolving landscape of international security globally. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., CSIS is recognized for its bipartisan approach and commitment to developing future-oriented policy initiatives. The organization is an Equal Opportunity Employer, ensuring employment decisions are made without discrimination based on protected characteristics.

Job Description

This document outlines an hourly position for Fall 2025, with a start date of September 2nd, within the CSIS Energy Security and Climate Change Program.

Program Overview:
The Energy Security and Climate Change Program at CSIS is dedicated to providing information and analysis aimed at improving energy security, addressing global climate change, and alleviating energy poverty and environmental injustice. The program consistently delivers high-quality public education, strategic insights, and policy solutions by examining issues at the intersection of geopolitics, policy, markets, and technology. It collaborates with leaders across government, industry, academia, and civil society to develop events and projects designed to help decision-makers craft smart energy policies that balance economic, environmental, and security priorities. The program emphasizes a diverse team environment, valuing different perspectives, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds to apply. While experience or specific knowledge in the energy sector and climate policy are not required, candidates with a demonstrated interest in these fields are preferred. Applicants are specifically asked to explain their interest in the energy and climate change sector in their cover letter.

Compensation:
The hired candidate will be paid hourly, with rates commensurate with their education level:
• $18.00/hour for current undergraduate hires.
• $19.00/hour for hires with a bachelor’s degree.
• $20.00/hour for hires with a master’s degree.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities:
Key responsibilities for this position include, but are not limited to:
• Providing research support for individual scholars and projects, specifically related to energy security, markets, transition, and geopolitics.
• Monitoring economic, energy, and climate-related policies.
• Offering logistical support to Program staff for administrative tasks, such as scheduling, event staffing, and routine office work.
• Attending events and lectures (both CSIS and external) and writing de-brief summaries.

Knowledge, Education, And Experience Requirements:
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
• Eligibility to work in the United States.
• Must be at least a college junior in good standing, an advanced student, or a recent graduate.
• Ability to work 35 hours a week.
• Ability to work in-person at CSIS headquarters four days a week.
• Excellent research skills (required).
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated good judgment and the ability to complete projects both independently and as part of a team.
• Well-organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong computer skills.
• Experience with data collection and management (preferred).

Work Conditions:
The role operates within a typical office environment. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities. The noise level in the workspace is generally moderate.

Application Process:
Interested applicants must submit the following materials:
• A cover letter (explaining interest in the energy and climate change sector).
• A resume.
• A short writing sample.
All submissions must be combined into a single PDF file to be considered. The application deadline is Monday, August 7, 2025. Applications are to be submitted via the CSIS secure recruitment portal accessible through the provided “Apply” link.

Equal Opportunity Employment:
CSIS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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.