Application Guide
How to Apply for Intern - Project on Nuclear Issues (Spring 2026)
at Center For Strategic And International Studies
🏢 About Center For Strategic And International Studies
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a premier bipartisan policy research organization focused on defense and security issues, with particular expertise in nuclear policy. As a leading think tank, CSIS offers interns direct exposure to high-level policy discussions and research that informs U.S. and international decision-making, making it an exceptional opportunity for students interested in nuclear security careers.
About This Role
This internship involves supporting CSIS's Project on Nuclear Issues (PONI) through research on nuclear deterrence, nonproliferation, or emerging technologies, data analysis of nuclear policy developments, and coordination of events or publications. The role is impactful because it contributes directly to policy-relevant research that shapes nuclear security debates in Washington and beyond.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve conducting literature reviews on nuclear deterrence policies, analyzing data from security reports, and attending PONI team meetings to discuss research progress. You could also assist with preparing materials for events or drafting sections of policy briefs, balancing independent tasks with collaborative input in a dynamic think tank setting.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Center For Strategic And International Studies Is Looking For
- A current undergraduate or graduate student in political science, international relations, security studies, or a related field with a strong GPA (e.g., 3.5+), demonstrating academic rigor.
- Possesses excellent written and verbal communication skills, evidenced by research papers, policy briefs, or presentations on nuclear topics.
- Has foundational knowledge of nuclear issues, such as deterrence theory, arms control treaties (e.g., New START), or nonproliferation regimes, through coursework or prior experience.
- Can balance independent research tasks with collaborative project work, showing initiative while supporting team goals in a fast-paced think tank environment.
📝 Tips for Applying to Center For Strategic And International Studies
Tailor your resume to highlight any coursework, research, or projects related to nuclear policy, security studies, or data analysis, using keywords from the job description like 'nuclear issues' or 'analytical skills.'
In your application materials, reference specific CSIS PONI publications, events, or experts (e.g., recent reports or conferences) to show genuine interest in their work.
Emphasize any experience with policy research methods, such as qualitative analysis, literature reviews, or data visualization, as this role involves hands-on research support.
If you have familiarity with nuclear issues, briefly mention a specific topic of interest (e.g., hypersonic weapons or nuclear modernization) to stand out as knowledgeable.
Apply early for the Spring 2026 internship, as think tank roles like this at CSIS are competitive and may have rolling deadlines; check their website for exact dates.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Explain why you are passionate about nuclear issues, linking it to CSIS's mission and PONI's focus areas, such as deterrence or emerging technologies.", 'Highlight specific academic or research experiences that demonstrate your analytical and communication skills, like a thesis or paper on nuclear policy.', "Describe how you can contribute to PONI's projects, mentioning any relevant skills in research coordination or data analysis.", "Express your interest in CSIS's bipartisan approach and how it aligns with your career goals in policy or security studies."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review CSIS's Project on Nuclear Issues (PONI) webpage, including recent publications, event summaries, and staff bios to understand their focus areas.
- → Explore CSIS's overall research on defense and security to see how PONI fits into the organization's broader mission and bipartisan ethos.
- → Look into nuclear policy news or reports from the past year to discuss current issues knowledgeably, such as arms control negotiations or technological advancements.
- → Familiarize yourself with CSIS's internship program details, including any specific expectations or opportunities for Spring 2026 interns in Iowa.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic application without mentioning CSIS, PONI, or nuclear issues, which shows lack of research and interest.
- Overstating familiarity with nuclear topics without concrete examples, as this role values genuine knowledge and analytical depth.
- Failing to highlight teamwork or communication skills, as the internship involves coordination and collaborative research in a policy environment.
📅 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Center For Strategic And International Studies!