Middle East Research Intern, Fall 2026

Job overview

The Middle East Research Intern, Fall 2026 role is based in Washington, DC, with hybrid and remote internship options; compensation is not specified, though the program offers stipends subject to eligibility requirements. The Foundation for Defense of Democracies is a nonpartisan research institute focused on national security and foreign policy. The intern works with the Middle East Research Program on projects concerning Israel, Iran, Syria, and Lebanon. Research and writing contribute analysis of regional developments, politics, international relations, economic relations, and national security.

What you'll do

• Conduct research on projects related to Israel, Iran, Syria, and Lebanon
• collaborate with FDD scholars and experts
• develop research and writing skills
• participate in the internship program’s twice-monthly speaker series
• submit a resume or CV, cover letter, writing sample of no more than three pages, and unofficial transcript.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

research intern

middle east research

fall 2026

foundation for defense of democracies

washington dc

hybrid

remote option

foreign policy

national security

israel

iran

syria

lebanon

22 hours per week

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Internship stipend may be available subject to eligibility
• academic-credit assistance
• professional development and twice-monthly speaker series.

Why this role

The internship requires at least a 3.2 GPA, a minimum commitment of 22 hours per week, and eligibility to work in the United States; foreign-language research ability is a plus but not required.

About the employer

Foundation for Defense of Democracies is hiring for this role. Industry: Human Rights Organizations. Sector: 81.