Global Transition Internship

The Global Transition intern works closely with the program directors for Technology and Digital Policy and Infrastructure and Development Policy.

The Program for Technology and Digital Policy promotes a transatlantic dialogue on the digital transformation of our economies and societies. The goal is to advance norms and standards for digital governance to ensure that the use of digital technologies supports economic growth and innovation without harm to people or the environment. A common transatlantic understanding is critical as China's high-tech ambitions increasingly affect North American and European liberal democracies. The Global Development Policy program strives to rethink global economic power structures and work for a more inclusive culture of international cooperation that responds to the needs of all groups in our global society. It seeks to foster a global dialogue on a sustainable, democratic, equitable and human rights-based approach to development. Both programs focus on developments in the United States and the European Union and their impact on the Global South.

This internship is well suited for students interested in global economic and digital governance with a background in economics and/ or public policy. Applicants should be self-motivated and independent workers. We prefer applicants with an interest in both program areas.

We will only accept applications submitted before January 10, 2023. The earliest start date for the internship will be March 2023.

Basic Requirements

• experience in at least one of our program areas
• genuine interest in the values and mission of the foundation
• competent command of English (German is not a requirement)
• full-time commitment of 40 hours per week for 3 to 6 months (part-time only on a case-by-case basis)
• at least 2 years of university-level experience
• currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program OR recent (<1 year) Bachelor's degree recipients
• Knowledge in digital development policy and digital connectivity witch a specific focus on the Global South is an advantage

Applications from mid-career professionals or applicants who have already completed a Master's or Ph.D. will not be accepted.

Benefits

• a monthly stipend of $700 for full-time positions and proportionally less for part-time
• 5 paid vacation days per 3-month period for full-time internships and proportionally less for part-time
• most of the costs associated with a visa application can be covered by the foundation

NOTE: Washington, D.C. is an expensive city. We encourage applicants to apply for external funding and scholarships if necessary.

Administrative Responsibilities

• provide logistical support for preparation and implementation of visitor programs and events
• manage front desk duties (e.g. answer telephones, respond to information inquiries)
• manage contact and program-specific databases

Communications

• develop social media content and communications strategies
• update content on our website and blogs

Research

• conduct background research on topical issues and current events
• prepare research for upcoming events, tours, and speaker series

Capstone Project

In addition to routine tasks, interns are required to complete a capstone project on a topic of their choosing. Capstones can be one extensive piece or a combination of the following:

• 5-10 page policy paper (see an example paper here).
• interview with a policy expert (either article or video)
• script for a 2-3 min explanatory video
• series of short blog pieces or op-eds