Application Guide

How to Apply for Intern - Korea Chair (Spring and Summer 2026)

at Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)

🏢 About Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)

CSIS is a premier bipartisan think tank focused on international policy and strategic studies, known for its influential research on global security, economics, and governance. Working at CSIS offers unique access to policymakers, experts, and high-impact projects that shape international discourse, making it ideal for those passionate about Korea-related geopolitical issues.

About This Role

As an intern for the Korea Chair, you'll support research on Korean Peninsula security, U.S.-Korea relations, and regional dynamics through tasks like data analysis, briefings, and event coordination. This role is impactful because it contributes directly to CSIS's influential policy recommendations and provides hands-on experience in a leading think tank's Korea-focused work.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve researching recent developments on the Korean Peninsula, drafting summaries for senior staff, attending virtual briefings with experts, and assisting with logistics for upcoming Korea Chair events. You'll likely collaborate with team members via digital platforms to support ongoing projects while managing independent research tasks.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS) Is Looking For

  • Demonstrates strong knowledge of Korean Peninsula geopolitics, U.S.-Korea relations, and regional security issues
  • Has research experience (academic or professional) with skills in qualitative/quantitative analysis and policy writing
  • Shows familiarity with CSIS's Korea Chair publications, events, and research priorities
  • Can work independently in a remote setting while collaborating effectively with a distributed team

📝 Tips for Applying to Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)

1

Highlight specific CSIS Korea Chair reports or events you've engaged with and explain why they resonate with you

2

Emphasize any Korean language skills or regional expertise, even if basic, as this is a Korea-focused role

3

Tailor your resume to include keywords like 'policy research,' 'geopolitical analysis,' or 'stakeholder engagement' from CSIS's work

4

Mention any remote collaboration tools you're proficient with (e.g., Slack, Asana) given the remote contract nature

5

If you have no direct think tank experience, showcase transferable skills from academic projects, internships, or volunteer work related to international affairs

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Explain your specific interest in the Korea Chair's research areas (e.g., denuclearization, alliance management, economic security)", "Describe how your background aligns with CSIS's bipartisan, evidence-based approach to policy analysis", 'Provide a concise example of a research or analysis project relevant to Korea or international security', 'Express your ability to thrive in a remote, contract-based role with limited supervision']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review recent Korea Chair publications, podcasts, and events to understand their current focus areas
  • → Study CSIS's organizational structure and how the Korea Chair interacts with other programs (e.g., Asia Program, International Security Program)
  • → Familiarize yourself with key CSIS experts on Korea, like Dr. Victor Cha or other affiliated scholars
  • → Explore CSIS's 'Impact Careers' initiative to understand their approach to early-career roles

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you analyze recent developments in U.S.-Korea relations under the current administration?
2 Describe a research project where you had to synthesize complex information into clear recommendations
3 How do you prioritize tasks when working remotely on multiple deadlines?
4 What CSIS Korea Chair publication or event has influenced your thinking, and why?
5 How would you contribute to a bipartisan think tank's mission while maintaining objectivity?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application without mentioning CSIS or the Korea Chair specifically
  • Overemphasizing partisan political views rather than evidence-based policy analysis
  • Failing to demonstrate knowledge of Korea-related issues or CSIS's work in your materials

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Center For Strategic And International Studies (CSIS)!

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