The James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS) offers on-the-job training during the summer for undergraduate students in nonproliferation studies. Participants conduct research on issues related to the spread and control of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), including: nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, and regional security issues in the former Soviet Union, Eurasia, East Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. In addition to working on ongoing projects at CNS, undergraduate fellows may develop their own research projects under the guidance of senior CNS faculty. Fellows will attend CNS lectures and training seminars throughout the summer. Usually, CNS starts the training program at the beginning of June for two to three months.
Eligibility
Be enrolled full-time at an undergraduate institution
Is eligible to work in the United States*
Has a strong interest in nonproliferation issues**
Preferred Qualifications
Sophomore standing at an undergraduate institution before starting the program
Knowledgeable of international security topics
Has command of a foreign language
Paid, Summer-only
Undergraduate Fellows (formerly called Interns) are paid at approximately the same rate as graduate research assistants. Fellowships last between 2-3 months, from early June to late August. Fellows are responsible for finding housing, with the assistance of the Fellowship Coordinator.
Fellows will work with CNS experts on substantive issues in areas such as:
- Eurasia
- East Asia
- Chemical and Biological Weapons
- International Organizations and Nonproliferation
- Export Control and Nonproliferation
- Middle East Nonproliferation
CNS is a pioneer in developing and applying “New Tools” in nonproliferation research and education. Our key techniques include open source information and computer modeling, namely the creative use of satellite imagery, geospatial data, 3-dimensional (3D) modeling, virtual reality environments, and social media platforms. Over the summer, fellows may have the opportunities to contribute to innovative nonproliferation projects for the Nuclear Threat Initiative website alongside a team of CNS experts.
Duties
In addition to assisting CNS experts with ongoing projects, our fellows get to develop their own research projects under the guidance of their respective supervisors and mentors. Because this is an educational program, fellows are also expected to attend seminars and lectures held at CNS throughout the summer and present results of their independent research at the end of the program.
To Apply
To complete the application, you must upload the following to the online form:
- A cover letter with a statement of purpose
- Specify which projects interests you most from the ones listed above
- State availability: starting and ending dates of fellowship
- Curriculum vitae or resume
- Official or unofficial transcript
- Short writing sample (2-3 pages)
- At least two references. (At least one reference must be from your college professor)
- Recommendation letter requirement: References will automatically be contacted via email when an application is changed to a “further consideration” status by the hiring manager.
You will not be able to submit your application for review until all required documents are attached to your online application.
Contact Information / Fellowship Coordinator
Masako Toki
Undergraduate Fellowship Coordinator
mtoki@middlebury.edu
