Fall Research Internship – Middle East and North Africa Focus

Department: Research and Publications

Period: August-December (20-25 hours/week), flexible schedule

Compensation: Unpaid

Location: Washington, D.C. (Remote)

About the Washington Center for Yemeni Studies (WCYS)

WCYS is committed to strengthening US-Yemen relations based on shared democratic values and good governance. We provide expert analysis of Yemen's political, economic, and social dynamics to inform U.S. foreign policy. Our work advocates for a robust U.S. approach towards Yemen that prioritizes democracy, human rights, and effective governance as foundational elements for regional stability and prosperity.

Through our research and engagement efforts, we aim to contribute to a U.S. foreign policy that supports Yemen's path to peace, reconciliation, and democratic governance. We facilitate dialogue between Yemeni communities, U.S. policymakers, and international stakeholders, promoting a nuanced understanding of Yemen's complexities and the importance of sustained, principled U.S. engagement in the region.

Job Summary

The Research Intern at the Washington Center for Yemeni Studies (WCYS) will support research staff on projects related to Yemen, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, and broader geopolitical dynamics, including Iran's regional influence. This role involves conducting in-depth research on complex geopolitical issues, analyzing data on regional conflicts and power dynamics, and drafting summaries, reports, and policy briefs. The intern will explore topics such as Yemen's ongoing crisis, Iran's role in regional affairs, and the interplay of various state and non-state actors in the MENA region. Additionally, they will assist with organizing events, workshops, and other outreach activities to disseminate research findings and foster dialogue on these critical issues. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in geopolitical analysis and contribute to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted challenges facing Yemen and the broader Middle East.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive research on the MENA region, focusing on Yemen and Iran's regional influence, covering political, economic, social, and cultural issues
Collect and analyze data from diverse sources, including academic journals, news articles, government reports, and social media, with emphasis on geopolitical dynamics
Draft research summaries, policy briefs, and reports for both internal use and external audiences, including policymakers and media
Assist in organizing and preparing materials for presentations, workshops, and public events to disseminate research findings
Contribute to the development of new research projects and initiatives, particularly those examining regional conflicts and power dynamics
Support senior researchers in monitoring key developments in Yemen, Iran, and the wider Middle East that impact regional stability and U.S. foreign policy
Other duties as assigned, which may include supporting grant and social media content writing efforts or attending relevant think tank events

Qualifications

Current undergraduate or graduate student at a U.S. university, preferably in a field related to Middle East studies, political science, international relations, or a related discipline
Strong research and writing skills
Demonstrated interest in the MENA region
Fluency in English required
Working knowledge of Arabic or Farsi preferred
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and one writing sample, up to 5 pages double-spaced, to info@wcys.org. Writing samples should demonstrate the ability to research and write policy-relevant work on the region. Please include "Fall Research Internship—MENA" in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Additional Information

WCYS is committed to providing a supportive and engaging environment for interns. Interns will have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects and gain valuable experience in Middle East research.

WCYS is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Note: This is a non-exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The intern will work remotely and will not receive benefits.

Washington Center for Yemeni Studies

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