About The National Bureau of Asian Research

NBR is an independent, nonpartisan research institution based in Seattle and Washington, D.C. We bring world-class scholarship to bear on the evolving strategic environment in Asia through original, policy-relevant research, and we invest in our future by training the next generation of Asia specialists.

With power, risk, and opportunity concentrating in Asia, we tackle those critical issues that America's leaders need to understand - because the decisions they make matter and the stakes are high. As the nation's Asia policy think tank, we envision a future that is free, open, secure, and prosperous for all.

This is an opportunity to work in a supportive environment with a group of high performing, dedicated, and friendly colleagues.

The Intern for the Technology and Geoeconomic Affairs group (TGA) provides research, communication, event planning, and administrative support for TGA projects. Reporting to the Assistant Director, the Intern will expand their skills and build a portfolio in project management, research, writing, and editing in order to advance career opportunities.

This is a paid, full-time internship opportunity (30hrs/wk) expected to last 6-months (approximately March through August 2026), with the potential to extend up to an additional 6 months, depending on performance and institutional need.

Responsibilities

Interns work to support TGA projects and initiatives under the direction and supervision of the Assistant Director.

• Project Management: Provide substantive assistance for project teams, key stakeholders, and scholars, including gathering articles on current events and background on key individuals, attending and summarizing relevant events, and interviewing experts related to ongoing research initiatives for Q&A sessions to be published on NBR's website.
• Project Development: Assist with development of project concepts and grant proposals.
• Research Support: Provide substantive research assistance for project teams and scholars, including summarizing research papers and undertaking literature reviews.
• Writing & Publications Support: Draft and proofread concept papers, memos, grant reports, and briefing papers. Review, edit, format and fact-check project publications, providing valuable feedback to enhance the quality of NBR’s content.
• Event Support: Support team events (conferences, workshops, presentations, and briefings) by drafting agendas, sending, and responding to invitations, assisting with travel, accommodation and venue arrangements, note-taking, and other logistical support tasks.
• Grant Development Support: Track development and grant opportunities, including assisting with scoping and drafting project proposal narratives.
• Administrative Support and Database Administration: Draft and manage independent contractor agreements for external project experts, and submit invoices and receipts for program activities.
• Participate actively in and support various NBR activities and initiatives as required.

Qualifications

• Interns have a strong interest in in U.S. trade, economics, technology, intellectual property, or foreign policy, especially pertaining to Asia.
• Bachelor’s degree (or current student) in Asia Studies, international relations, foreign policy, political science, economics, or other relevant discipline.
• Some in-office research assistance and/or administrative support experience.
• Excellent research and communication skills, with a strong attention to detail.
• Self-motivated with ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• • Master’s degree or current Master’s candidate.
  • Reading and research proficiency in an Asian language.

Application Instructions

The application period for this position will close on 2/28/26; however, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning 2/4/26. To apply, submit the following materials with your application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

• Cover letter summarizing your experience as it applies to the outlined responsibilities and qualifications.
• Resume
• Recent 3-5 page writing sample that has not been edited by anyone else.

As you progress through the screening and interview process, please be prepared to provide the following:

• Contact information for 3 professional and/or academic references (Will not be contacted until final interview stage).

Additional Information

This is a hybrid position based in our Washington, DC office. Full-Time staff are expected to work in-office at least two days per week. The expected pay range for this position is $21.50-$22.50 per hour, depending on level of education.

This full-time position includes paid time off, including 25 paid company holidays, (including 2 floating holidays), up to 56 hours of paid sick leave (pro-rated for mid-year hires), and 2 days of paid professional development leave, per year. Additionally, NBR offers 4-weeks of paid Sabbatical leave for all full-time staff after every 5 years of service. NBR covers 80% of employees' Public Transit commuting costs.

NBR is committed to a workplace where inclusion is not only valued but prioritized. We're an equal opportunity employer and strive to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, pregnancy or parental status, creed, military or veteran status, religion, ancestry, or national origin, disability, or other status or characteristic protected by applicable law.

Applicants must successfully pass a background check, which will be conducted in accordance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17. Applicants will be given a chance to explain or correct background information and provide verifiable information of good conduct and rehabilitation.

If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during either the application or the recruiting process, please email your request to employment@nbr.org.