Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) Is Hiring A Middle East Research Fall 2025 Internship

🌟 Exciting Internship Opportunities at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) 🌍

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies offers dynamic internships in a unique environment dedicated to promoting democracy, strategic research, and global security. Join us to make a meaningful impact and gain invaluable professional experience!

About FDD's Internship Program

Located in the heart of downtown Washington, D.C., FDD provides a variety of internship opportunities designed to enhance your academic and professional growth. Interns will:

• Participate in a bi-monthly speaker series with prominent DC officials and senior staff 🗣️
• Work closely with senior staff to apply academic knowledge in real-world policy contexts 📚
• Have the opportunity to earn academic credit 🎓
• Receive a stipend (subject to government documentation requirements) 💰

Note: FDD's Middle East Research program will offer hybrid and remote internship options for Fall 2025.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis—early submissions are encouraged! Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Middle East Research Internship Program

We are seeking both full-time and part-time interns to assist with research projects related to:

• Israel, Iran, Syria, and Lebanon
• Regional politics, international relations, economic relations, and national security

Interns will work directly with Dr. David Adesnik, FDD's Director of Research, and contribute to critical issues impacting the Middle East.

If you have a passion for foreign policy and the Middle East, we encourage you to apply. Fluency in Persian (Farsi), Arabic, or Hebrew is a plus but not required.

Eligibility Criteria

• Minimum GPA of 3.2 (on a 4.0 scale) 🎓
• Relevant coursework in International Relations, Security Studies, History, Communications, Journalism, International Economics, Political Science, or STEM fields 🧠
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word and basic Excel skills 💻
• Availability to commit to at least 22 hours per week ⏰
• Legal eligibility to work in the United States 🇺🇸

Application Materials

To apply, please submit the following documents:

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter — Include which FDD projects and issue areas resonate with you, where you found this internship, and your availability.
• Writing Sample — No more than 3 pages
• Unofficial Transcript

In your cover letter, specify your preferred department(s). Feel free to submit separate applications for different positions of interest. Incomplete applications will not be considered.