Research Intern
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Job Description
About the Company: The Center for Strategic and International Studies (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. Over the years, CSIS has grown significantly, becoming one of the largest organizations of its kind. It employs a staff of approximately 275 individuals, including over 120 analysts who are dedicated to addressing the evolving dynamics of international security worldwide. CSIS is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and is committed to conducting research and analysis, and developing policy initiatives that are forward-looking and anticipate future changes. It is an Equal Opportunity Employer, ensuring employment selection and related decisions are made without discrimination based on protected classes.
About the Job: Research Intern for the Critical Minerals Security Program
The Critical Minerals Security Program at CSIS focuses on providing evidence-based thought leadership to develop innovative and sensible policy solutions. The program’s primary objective is to reduce supply chain vulnerabilities for key minerals essential for national, economic, and energy security.
This is a job for a Research Intern within this program. It is a full-time, paid position, set to begin in September 2025. The program operates in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, seeking an individual who is motivated, capable, detail-oriented, and comfortable working both collaboratively and independently.
Key Responsibilities (Essential Duties and Responsibilities):
• Research Support: Provide research assistance for individual scholars and projects specifically related to critical minerals supply chains and policy.
• Monitoring Developments: Monitor key developments and issues concerning critical minerals supply chains.
• Data Management: Compile, organize, and analyze relevant critical minerals data.
• Logistical and Administrative Support: Offer logistical support to Program staff for administrative tasks as needed, including staffing high-profile events and routine office work.
• Event Attendance & Summarization: Attend events and lectures organized by CSIS and external organizations to take notes and produce debrief summaries.
• Social Media Promotion: Assist in promoting the Program’s public events and publications on social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn.
Compensation:
The hired candidate will be paid hourly, with the rate 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.
Required Knowledge, Education, and Experience:
• Eligibility to Work: Must be eligible to work in the United States.
• Academic Standing: Must be at least a college junior in good standing, an advanced student, or a recent graduate.
• Commitment: Ability to commit 35 hours a week is preferred.
• Work Location: Ability to work in-person at CSIS headquarters in Washington, D.C.
• Research Skills: Excellent research skills are required.
• Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills are essential.
• Work Ethic: Good judgment and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Organizational Skills: Strong attention to detail, time management, and organizational skills.
• Computer Proficiency: Strong computer skills.
• Data Experience (Preferred): Experience with data collection and management is preferred.
• Critical Minerals Interest (Preferred): While not required, candidates with a demonstrated interest or specific knowledge in the mining sector and critical minerals are preferred. Applicants should explain their interest in critical minerals security in their cover letter.
Physical Requirements and Work Conditions:
The role is based in an office environment. The physical demands are typical of office work, and reasonable accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities. The noise level in the work environment is generally moderate.
Application Process:
Interested applicants should submit the following documents via the CSIS secure recruitment portal (careers.csis.org):
• A résumé
• A cover letter (highlighting interest in critical minerals security)
• A short writing sample
