Research Assistant
Arlington, VA
Schmidt Special Competitive Studies Project – SCSP Operations /
Intern /
On-site
SCSP is now hiring for the Fall 2025 Program. SCSP offers both full-time and part-time paid internship opportunities at our Arlington office. This is an in-person/hybrid position, and accepted candidates are required to work in the office when possible. Applications are due by August 20, 2025.
Founded by Dr. Eric Schmidt, the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP) is a 501(c)3 private foundation tasked with making recommendations to strengthen America’s long-term global competitiveness for a future where artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies reshape our global strategic environment. The project is organized into six panels–Foreign Policy, Intelligence, Defense, Economy, Governance, and Future Technology Platforms. Each panel will analyze AI and other emerging technologies, address how these technologies will reshape their field and produce detailed recommendations to ensure that America is organized to win the techno-economic competition.
SCSP offers both full-time and part-time paid internship opportunities at our Arlington office. As an SCSP intern, or “research assistant,” you will have the opportunity to hone research and writing skills, strengthen communication skills, and improve networking skills. You will gain experience in a variety of disciplines exploring the impact of AI and related emerging technologies and work with leading experts from government, academia, and the private sector. Opportunities for Research Assistants may also be available within SCSP's Multimedia and Government Affairs teams.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Current undergraduate or graduate student
- Strong reading, writing and communication skills
- Education or experience in Economics, Political Science, History, International Relations, Security Studies, Regional Studies, Computer Science, Engineering, Information or Library Science, or a related field
- Ability to work up to 20 hours per week during the fall/spring semesters and up to 40 hours per week during the summer
- Must be able to work in-person at least two days per week
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience working in a fast-paced office environment with deadlines
- Experience working with Google Suites and Zoom
- Ability to do research in Mandarin, Farsi, and/or Russian a plus
Responsibilities:
- Provide support to senior leaders, including but not limited to creating literature reviews and summaries on subject matter related to national security and technology
- Perform original research on various topics such as emerging tech platforms, disinformation, information integrity and foreign technological developments as it relates to artificial intelligence
- Take detailed notes and prepare memos summarizing engagements with external stakeholders and experts
- Other duties as assigned
$21 - $26 an hour
This is a non-exempt role.
