Business Executives for National Security (BENS) relies on our Research Associates. They contribute to all aspects of our work in applying best business practices to addressing the nation’s most critical security challenges. Research Associates receive substantive research and writing assignments in BENS’ major areas of work. For a complete list of current project/policy efforts and descriptions, click here.
Principal Duties & Responsibilities
Research Associates are integral to the BENS team. They have substantive research and administrative responsibilities, supporting BENS’ organizational goals and the work BENS is doing with government partners. Work includes:
Research and Project Support
- Tracking and analyzing developments of relevant policy issues, such as defense acquisition reform efforts.
- Covering Congressional hearings or other key meetings, including taking notes and drafting follow up memoranda.
- Working with BENS project/policy staff to provide supporting research for work with BENS government partners, including: literature reviews, report summaries, bibliographies, analyses of relevant articles.
- Engaging with business leaders who are BENS members, and other public and private sector partners, to support BENS work.
- Assisting with the preparation of and participating in project-related events, including drafting background memos, event agendas trip books, and taking meeting notes.
- Helping to draft written products such as: media pieces, correspondence, reports and memos to government partners.
Administrative Support
- Setting up and breaking down all project-related events.
- Supporting the logistical and database needs of all project-related events.
- General office administrative support.
Term
BENS offers Research Associate internship positions throughout the year. Spring terms typically run January-May, Summer terms June-August, and Fall terms September-December. This is a paid position. You should be available to work full-time for four or five days each week.
Requirements
BENS accepts applicants from all backgrounds and degree programs (e.g., International Affairs, Security Studies, Public Policy, Economics, or any professional school graduate program). Most applicants have, or are in the process of completing, an undergraduate or graduate degree. However, candidates are selected at a variety of career points, depending on their skills and prior experience. Strong writing and research skills are required, as is an interest in national security issues. Previous work experience is strongly desired. Applicants must also be computer-literate and Internet-savvy. For more information, please call (202) 296-2125 or email PolicyInternships@bens.org.
To Apply
All applicants are encouraged to explore our website before applying; demonstrating an interest in, and understanding of, BENS’ mission is critical to a competitive application.
Please send a concise cover letter, a one-page resume, and a 2-3 page writing sample to the Research Associate Coordinator at PolicyInternships@bens.org. Applications that do not include all documentation will not be considered.
Deadlines for receipt of applications:
> Spring: November 30
