Fall 2026 Trainee, Executive Office

The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) is a nonpartisan think tank that advances the transatlantic partnership to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. 

With headquarters in Washington, DC; offices in?Berlin, Brussels, Paris, Warsaw, Belgrade, Bucharest,?and Ankara; representations in London and Madrid; and more than 140 experts and fellows worldwide, GMF is a hub for policy innovation, strategic convening, and leadership development. 

GMF’s work focuses on three priorities: strengthening transatlantic security, advancing economic and technological competitiveness, and adapting to a shifting global landscape.  

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Position Overview 

GMF seeks a highly motivated, full-time Research Intern to support the President and the Executive Office. As part of a high-performing, mission-driven team, the intern will gain hands-on experience in policy analysis, thought leadership, and external engagement - with direct exposure to senior leadership and Washington's foreign policy community. 

Key Responsibilities 

Research & Policy Analysis 

• Conduct substantive research in support of the President's work across a range of international policy topics 
• Prepare background briefs, issue memos, talking points, and draft materials for senior-level audiences 
• Track relevant policy developments and synthesize information in a clear, timely manner 
• Build strong research, analytical, and writing skills in a fast-paced policy environment 

Executive Office Support 

• Assist with select coordination and logistical tasks related to the President's schedule and engagements 
• Ensure briefing materials are accurate, timely, and aligned with the President's priorities 
• Gain exposure to the day-to-day operations of the Executive Office 

Profile & Work Environment 

• Current graduate student, recent graduate, or PhD student with strong research and analytical abilities 
• Excellent writing and editing skills and a demonstrated interest in international affairs or public policy 
• Intellectually curious, highly organized, and capable of managing multiple assignments under tight deadlines 
• Demonstrates professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail, as the role involves exposure to sensitive information 

Mentorship & Team Integration 

• Work closely with the Executive Assistant and members of the Executive Office 
• Interact regularly with senior staff across the organization 
• Benefit from mentorship, feedback, and meaningful insight into how senior leadership operates within an international policy institution 

Events & External Engagements 

• Support Executive Team meetings through research and briefing preparation 
• Assist with policy-related events and external engagements as needed 
• Based in GMF's Washington, D.C. office 

Learning Opportunity 

• Gain direct exposure to senior leadership in a leading transatlantic policy institution 
• Strengthen advanced research and writing skills in a high-impact environment 
• Engage with Washington's foreign policy community through meetings, briefings, and events 
• Ideal for candidates seeking careers in international affairs, public policy, or related fields 

Qualifications and Requirements  

• Must be based in Washington, DC ? 
• Current graduate student, recent graduate, or PhD student in international affairs, public policy, or a related field 
• Extensive knowledge of European affairs, transatlantic relations, foreign and security policy issues 
• Excellent written and oral communication skills 
• Strong attention to detail and multi-tasking skills; and must be creative, organized, committed and responsible 
• Ability to take initiative and be a self-starter.? 
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multicultural environment.? 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook) is essential.? 

Start and Length of Internship:? 

• Preferred Start date: Tuesday, September 8, 2026 
• Length of internship: 3 – 5 months (negotiable)? 
• Wage: $18.40 per hour (The approximate monthly income, based on a 35-hour workweek over four weeks is $2,576) 

How to Apply: 

To apply, please submit your?cover letter?and?current resume. Due to the high volume of applications, only candidates of interest will be contacted.  This application will close on Monday, June 22nd, 2026.  

GMF is an?Equal Opportunity Employer. If you require a reasonable accommodation at any stage of the selection process, please contact?[email protected].