Intern - Aerospace Security Project (Spring/Summer 2026)

Job Summary The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a non‑profit, bipartisan public policy organization established in 1962 that provides strategic insights and practical policy solutions to decision makers concerned with global security and prosperity. With a staff of around 250 employees, including more than 120 analysts, CSIS addresses the changing dynamics of international security worldwide. Position Overview The CSIS Aerospace Security Project (ASP) is seeking an intern to support research and administrative needs related to space security, air dominance, commercial and civil space. The candidate will be paid hourly: $18.00/hour for undergraduate hires, $19.00 for bachelor’s degree holders, and $20.00 for master’s degree holders. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Research and Writing (60%) Conduct literature reviews, and compile and analyze data for ongoing research projects. Provide research, writing, and editing support for various reports and documents. Support written products through background research, copy‑editing, and citation editing as needed. Collaborate with and support multiple staff members on different research projects on topics ranging from air dominance, cislunar activities, international space policy, space sustainability, space security, U.S. Space Force strategy and missions, and more. Draft outreach and promotional content. Discover, clean, organize, and analyze various data sources such as Department of Defense or NASA budget data, space launch data, satellite telemetry data, finance and investment projections, or counterspace weapons data. Administrative Duties (40%) Support content on LinkedIn, X, the CSIS website, and Aerospace Security (aerospace.csis.org). Assist in preparation for meetings, private and public events, and conferences. Track relevant legislation and public announcements in the aerospace sector. Perform ad hoc requests and other duties as needed to support staff members. Knowledge, Education, and Experience Either currently enrolled in a PhD, master’s or bachelor’s program; or has recently graduated with a B.A., B.S., M.A., PhD or equivalent. Interest or experience in aerospace, space science, defense, or national security. Excellent record in an academic or research environment. Strong writing, organizational, communication, and time‑management skills. Ability to work independently. Experience in graphic design or illustration software such as Canva is a plus. Preference for applicants with technical expertise in coding, satellite modeling, and performance analysis of aerospace systems. 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. 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. Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr CSIS Middle East Program