Intern - Japan Chair (Fall 2026)

The CSIS Japan Chair program was established in 1981 with the mission to be the leading source of policy-relevant research on Japan, the U.S.-Japan alliance, and Japan's leadership on the global stage. It conducts wide-ranging research on challenges facing the U.S. and Japan and opportunities for the two countries to cooperate bilaterally and with other regional and global partners to find shared solutions. The program's current research agenda covers Japanese domestic politics and foreign policy and U.S.-Japan cooperation on issues related to defense, trade, investment, and economic security, as well as U.S.-Japan engagement with Indo-Pacific and European partners.

The hired candidate will be paid hourly, commensurate with experience ($18.40/hour for current undergraduate hires, $19.40/hour for hires with a bachelor's degree, and $20.40/hour for hires with a master's degree).

Essential functions may include, but are not limited to the following:
* Conduct research and monitor current events on issues related to the Japan Chair research portfolio
* Draft research memos, presentations, reports, event summaries, and other materials for program staff
* Gather, organize, and code data
* Provide logistical and administrative support for program events and research projects
* Perform other general tasks to support office functions

* Must be at least a college junior, graduate student, or recent graduate in Japan Studies, International Affairs, or Political Science with a demonstrated interest in the Indo-Pacific region
* At least a 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) from an accredited U.S. institution or equivalent from a non-U.S. institution
* Ability to commit to working 35 hours per week
* Eligible to work in the United States
* Strong communication, research, and writing skills
* Familiarity with Japanese foreign/defense policy and U.S.-Japan relations
* Ability to work independently and within a team
* Ability to manage competing priorities and multiple projects under tight deadlines
* Japanese language proficiency sufficient to conduct research using Japanese sources preferred
* Familiarity with qualitative and/or quantitative methods preferred
* Experience with social media (LinkedIn, X, Bluesky) and Canva preferred

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, academic transcripts, and a short writing sample. For priority considerations, applications should be submitted by August 2 at 11:59pm.