About the role#
The Policy Center at the Middle East Institute provides interns with the opportunity to support scholars through research, administrative coordination, and event planning. This role is designed for students or recent graduates interested in gaining practical experience in policy analysis and the political, security, and economic dynamics of the Middle East. This is a full-time, unpaid internship based on-site in Washington, DC, for the Fall 2026 term.
What you'll do#
- Monitor current trends, news, and advancements within the relevant research field.
- Conduct research on specific topics as requested by scholars, including fact-checking and editing for various writing projects.
- Provide administrative support such as managing correspondence, coordinating with external organizations, and handling travel logistics.
- Manage event logistics, including preparing invitations, coordinating with speakers, and drafting background materials.
- Assist scholars with social media outreach efforts.
What you'll need#
- Current undergraduate or graduate student, or a recent graduate in Middle East studies, international affairs, political science, or a related field.
- Minimum GPA of 3.5.
- Proficiency in data analysis software such as Excel and other research tools.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Location & details#
- Location: Washington, DC (On-site).
- Term: Fall 2026 (September 7, 2026 to December 11, 2026).
- Status: Full-time, unpaid.
About Middle East Institute
The Middle East Institute is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, DC. Founded in 1946, it focuses on the study of the Middle East through research, policy analysis, and public events. The institution also provides language instruction and maintains a library. It operates as a non-partisan entity with a staff of approximately 397 employees.
How to get in at Middle East Institute
Securing an internship at the Middle East Institute requires staying ahead of the applicant pool. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, ensuring you apply among the first. Early applicants often have their materials reviewed before the pile grows too large for recruiters to manage. You can also use Intern Insider to surface the recruiters behind the Middle East Institute roles. Reaching out directly to ask about the position or a potential referral often improves your response rate compared to submitting an application into a general queue.


