Budgeting for Foreign Affairs and Defense Internship

The Budgeting for Foreign Affairs and Defense (BFAD) program offers internship positions to graduate students seeking to gain research and analysis experience in the field of national security budgeting. Budgets are the heart of government; they reveal a nation's priorities behind the political rhetoric. The BFAD program examines the ways in which the nation plans and budgets its national security policy. Whether it is for a $12 billion aircraft carrier or a $15 billion initiative to fight HIV/AIDS, the BFAD program conducts independent analysis and provides pragmatic solutions to strengthen civilian foreign policy institutions while disciplining defense spending.

Responsibilities for an intern with the BFAD include:

Research and analysis

  • Conduct individual research into specific areas of foreign affairs and defense spending for Research Associates and Program Director
  • Summarize and analyze the ongoing budget and appropriations process on Capitol Hill (e.g., National Defense Authorization Act, State and Foreign Operations and Defense Appropriations bills, among others)
  • Research and write for the blog, The Will and the Wallet

Maintain and update the program blog and other program outreach

  • Brainstorm and plan upcoming blog pieces with Research Associates
  • Build and maintain communication with related blogs, including commenting on related blog posts on other websites
  • Work towards increasing our presence on related blogrolls, recommended reading lists, etc.
  • Program support and logistics (including event planning, write monthly activities report, draft agenda for weekly team meeting, etc.)

Strong candidates will have the following qualifications:

  • Strong familiarity and/or interest in foreign affairs and defense issues
  • Willingness to learn how the United States plans and budgets its national security policies
  • Very strong research abilities
  • Ability to write clearly and concisely
  • Demonstrate an aptitude for analytical thinking and problem solving
  • Attention to detail and commitment to high quality work
  • Ability to work independently


*Please note that the internship is unpaid, and applicants will only be considered for a Full-time internship (30+ hours/week). 

Click here to apply.