Application Guide

How to Apply for Security Unit Intern – Russia, Eastern Europe & Resilience

at Clingendael Institute

🏢 About Clingendael Institute

The Clingendael Institute is a prestigious independent think tank and academy focused on international relations, with 40 years of expertise bridging academic research and policy practice. What makes it unique is its direct collaboration with policymakers, military, diplomats, and NGOs, offering a rare opportunity to influence real-world security and geopolitical strategies in a Dutch and European context.

About This Role

This Security Unit Intern role involves contributing to ongoing projects on Russia, Eastern Europe, and societal resilience, with tasks spanning research, analysis, and project support. It's impactful because you'll work on current geopolitical developments that make headlines, directly supporting Clingendael's mission to enhance security and resilience through evidence-based policy recommendations.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing recent news on Eastern European security for a briefing, collaborating with researchers on a report about societal resilience, and attending virtual team meetings to discuss project progress. You'll balance independent research tasks with supporting ongoing initiatives, all while engaging with Clingendael's network of experts in a remote setting.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Clingendael Institute Is Looking For

  • A master's student in international relations, security studies, political science, or a related field with a focus on Russia/Eastern Europe.
  • Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex geopolitical information into clear insights.
  • Fluent in English and preferably Dutch, with excellent written communication skills for drafting reports and briefings.
  • Proactive and adaptable, able to work independently on diverse tasks while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and policy experts.

📝 Tips for Applying to Clingendael Institute

1

Tailor your resume to highlight any coursework, research, or projects related to Russia, Eastern Europe, security, or resilience—even if from a non-traditional background like history or economics.

2

Demonstrate your understanding of Clingendael's niche by referencing specific publications or projects from their Security Unit, such as those on hybrid threats or EU-NATO cooperation.

3

Emphasize any experience with policy-oriented work, such as internships at NGOs, government agencies, or other think tanks, to show you can bridge research and practice.

4

If you have language skills beyond English (e.g., Dutch, Russian, or Eastern European languages), explicitly mention them, as they're valuable for regional focus.

5

Submit your application in Dutch if possible, as the job posting is in Dutch, to show cultural and linguistic alignment with the institute's operations.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Explain why you're passionate about Clingendael's mission of linking academic research to policy, citing a specific project or publication that inspires you.", 'Detail your relevant expertise in Russia/Eastern Europe or security studies, with concrete examples like a thesis, paper, or volunteer work.', 'Highlight your ability to contribute to all three pillars of the role: research, analysis, and project support, with brief anecdotes of past successes.', 'Express your enthusiasm for the remote, contract-based setup and your availability for the 6-month, 36-hour-per-week commitment starting February 2026.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review Clingendael's recent publications on the Security Unit's webpage, focusing on Russia, Eastern Europe, or resilience topics.
  • → Explore the institute's partnerships with entities like the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs or NATO to understand its policy influence.
  • → Study the backgrounds of key researchers in the Security Unit to identify potential mentors or align your interests with their work.
  • → Look into Clingendael's events or training programs related to security to gauge their public engagement and network opportunities.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Discuss recent geopolitical developments in Russia or Eastern Europe and their implications for European security and resilience.
2 Explain how you would approach a research task on a topic like disinformation or hybrid threats, including your methodology and sources.
3 Describe a time you worked on a team project with diverse stakeholders and how you contributed to achieving policy-relevant outcomes.
4 Share your thoughts on Clingendael's role in the Dutch and international think tank landscape, and how you see yourself adding value.
5 Ask about current Security Unit projects, such as those related to societal resilience or EU policy, to show proactive engagement.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application without mentioning Clingendael, the Security Unit, or specific regional/security interests—this shows lack of tailored interest.
  • Overemphasizing theoretical academic knowledge without demonstrating how it applies to policy or practical security challenges.
  • Failing to address the remote work aspect or the 6-month contract duration, which might imply misalignment with the role's flexibility and commitment requirements.

📅 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 Clingendael Institute!

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