ABOUT THE POSITION
The Nuclear Information Project at the Federation of American Scientists (FAS) is seeking a part-time Project Intern for a six-month period, beginning immediately. We are looking for someone to support our ongoing research into US nuclear weapons policy.
The focus of this particular project is the United States’ plans to replace its current fleet of nuclear-armed intercontinental ballistic missiles with a new generation of missiles, officially known as the Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD). Don’t worry, you don’t have to be an expert on missiles––or even have heard of the GBSD––in order to apply to this position! Our analysis is multi-faceted and will include considerations of:
- Public perceptions and common narratives surrounding US-based nuclear weapons
- How these missiles affect the land and people who live near them
- Cold War and post-Cold War history
- The military-industrial complex and its connection to nuclear policymaking
- How these missiles work and how they would be used in a war
- Past, present, and future US nuclear doctrine
- How the United States’ allies and adversaries think about these missiles
- The various arguments in favor/against phasing out these missiles entirely
To that end, we welcome applicants with diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
In your role, you will work directly with the Research Associate for the Nuclear Information Project to help produce this analysis and its associated research products.
This position may be for you if:
- You really love to sink your teeth into very specific research topics.
- You are an independent, self-motivated, enthusiastic researcher.
- You want to establish or bolster your writing portfolio, but could use some support with brainstorming, writing, or pitching pieces.
- You are considering a career in nuclear weapons policy, but don’t have much prior experience and/or are transitioning from another field.
- You want to become an expert on intercontinental ballistic missiles and their role in US history, culture, and policy.
During your internship, you will:
- Conduct in-depth research about intercontinental ballistic missiles from a variety of perspectives, including those listed above.
- Develop, research, and complete a self-guided study on a particular aspect of intercontinental ballistic missiles. You will brainstorm and develop your study in conjunction with the project lead, in order to ensure that it furthers the ultimate goal of the project.
- Author or co-author writing pieces for external publication about various aspects of the project topic. The project lead would be happy to offer any support with brainstorming, editing, pitching, etc, as needed.
- Copy-edit, proofread, and footnote research products, specifically checking for substance as well as clarity of language, accuracy, grammar, and spelling.
- Help with planning and organizing remote events related to the project (i.e. briefings to media, policymakers, and the public).
- Work with FAS communications staff to maintain up-to-date website content relating to the project.
- Assist the project lead with miscellaneous research and administrative tasks, as necessary.
Internships should be mutually beneficial. Here’s what we can offer you:
- A warm welcome to the nuclear policy space.
- Personal connections and introductions to other nuclear policy professionals.
- Institutional support for self-directed research, writing, and publishing.
- An opportunity to establish or expand your writing portfolio.
- Guidance for taking the next steps in your potential nuclear policy career.
- A part-time stipend of $15 per hour for a period of six months.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Top-notch research, writing, communication, and organization skills. Primary research experience is especially welcome.
- Background knowledge of the policy questions surrounding intercontinental ballistic missiles (or an interest in and commitment to learning about them relatively quickly).
- An enthusiastic, passionate, and easy-going attitude.
- The ability to work independently and complete tasks in a timely manner, with a high attention to detail and a knack for thinking outside-the-box.
- Experience using standard word processing and video calling software.
- The ability to commit to six months of part time work (20 hours per week).
HOW TO APPLY
If this position sounds right for you, please email mkorda@fas.org with the subject line “Project Intern.” Please include the following in your email:
- A short statement/letter detailing your interest in the position.
- A CV/resume.
- A writing sample (don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be about missiles).
- The contact information (email and/or phone number) of 1-2 references.
We are looking to fill this position quickly––preferably by Labor Day. However, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. This post will be removed once the position is filled. If you have any questions about the position, please feel free to email mkorda@fas.org.
