Overview:
The Potomac Institute for Policy Studies is an independent, 501(c)(3), nonprofit science and technology policy think tank that has a robust andenduringinternship program. Excellence in research and objective analysis is the motto for the program. The Potomac Institute Internship Program (for undergraduate, graduate, or recently graduated students) hostsscholarswith a variety of academic backgrounds that relate to the science, technology, and national security missions of the Institute. The Institute strives to provide a versatile experience for each internship participant. Interns will be assigned toprovide directsupporttostaff, Senior Fellows, and/or academic programs within PIPS. Some unique qualities of the program areacknowledgements in publications,networking, academic credit, as well asaccess toin-house seminars, events,and conferences.
Internship Description:
Internshave the opportunity toconduct fast-paced research on Institute mission areas.You will learnand developvaluableprofessionalskills to improve your research, writing, and analysis that are applicableacross career fields. You will coordinate your schedule with your assigned scholar and are expected to be at the Institute two days per week. Interns will work16-20 hours per week during the fall/spring and 28-32 hours per week during the summer.The internship typically lasts the duration of an academicsemester,but exceptions can be made in certain circumstances.
Intern Duties:
Conducting research as directed; Compiling bibliographies; Collecting and assembling data; Copy editing and proofreading; Event planning and support; Attending Congressional hearings and other think tank events; As well asprovidinga full range of administrative support. (estimated50% research, 50% administrativesupport)
Requirements:
3.5 or higher GPA with a background or interest in political science, national security, defense, science and technology, economics, international affairs, public policy, and law are preferred, though others accepted. Candidates should have relevant research, writing, and editing experience, excellent organization and communication skills, strong MS Office skills, and the ability to prioritize a heavy workload.
Must be aUS Citizenand able topass a backgroundinvestigationin order toobtain asecurity clearance.
Deadlines:
This is a highly competitive and sought after position. Failure tosubmitthe materialslisted belowwill result in disqualification from moving to the next round.Failure tosubmit an application by the deadline will result in disqualification.
Complete application packages should be sent by the following deadlines:
Spring- (January to May) October 13
Summer- (May to September) March 16
Fall- (September to December) July 13
Applicants will need:
1. A letter of interest. In your letter, be sure to reference relevant Institute research areas and preferred scholarassignment.
2. Current resume
3. One to two-page writing sample
4. Unofficial transcript
5. Two (2) letters of recommendation. This does not meanincludeareferencespage.
Academic Credit:
We are more than happy toassiststudents with receiving academic credit through their respected Institution upon successful completion of the internship. Some educational institutionsrequireprior approval before the start of an internship for academic credit. It is the responsibility of the student to check with their institution to be sure they meet any requirements before they accept a position.
This positioncomplies withtheUS Departmentof Labor and theFair Labor Standard Act.