International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Conflict, Security and Development Programme Internship 2026: Paid & Funded Research Opportunity in London, UK ·Unknown

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is inviting applications for a paid Research Internship within the Conflict, Security and Development Programme (CSDP) in London, United Kingdom.

This opportunity is designed for undergraduate and postgraduate students interested in international relations, security studies, conflict analysis, economics, and development issues. The selected intern will gain practical experience supporting research projects focused on armed conflict, illicit economies, criminal networks, and global security challenges.

The internship is a six-week fixed-term position requiring 20 hours per week.

Application Deadline: 4 August 2026

Internship Overview

Position: Intern – Conflict, Security and Development Programme (CSDP)
Organisation: International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)
Location: London, United Kingdom
Working Hours: 20 hours per week
Contract Duration: Six weeks (fixed-term)
Opportunity Type: Paid Internship
Deadline: 4 August 2026

Candidates must already have the legal right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, IISS cannot provide visa sponsorship for this internship.

About the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is a leading global defence and security think tank providing independent research, analysis, and insights on international security, geopolitics, and geo-economics.

Through its network of experts and researchers, IISS supports governments, policymakers, businesses, and international stakeholders by providing evidence-based analysis on strategic challenges affecting the world.

The organisation is recognised for bringing together senior policymakers and experts to encourage dialogue and strengthen understanding of global defence and security issues.

About the Conflict, Security and Development Programme (CSDP)

The Conflict, Security and Development Programme conducts research on issues affecting global stability, including:

• Armed conflict.
• Security challenges.
• Illicit economies.
• Criminal dynamics.
• Conflict monitoring.
• Development and governance challenges.

The successful intern will support researchers working on major publications and research initiatives within the programme.

Key Responsibilities

The Research Intern will contribute to a variety of activities, including:

Research and Analysis Support

The intern will assist with:

• Research projects such as the Armed Conflict Survey.
• Studies on illicit economies and criminal networks.
• Conflict monitoring activities.
• Background research and literature reviews.
• Fact-checking research outputs.

Data Collection and Management

The role will involve:

• Collecting and organising research information.
• Supporting data manipulation and analysis.
• Working with spreadsheets and datasets.
• Helping researchers prepare evidence-based outputs.

Candidates with strong quantitative skills and experience working with data will be highly valued.

Events and Programme Activities

The intern will provide support for:

• Workshops.
• Roundtables.
• Webinars.
• Research events and discussions.

Responsibilities may include event preparation, coordination support, and documentation.

Publications and Visual Materials

The intern will contribute to research communication by supporting the preparation of:

• Charts.
• Maps.
• Visual materials.
• Presentation content.
• Written research outputs.

Eligibility Requirements

IISS is seeking candidates who meet the following criteria:

• Currently studying towards a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in:
  • International Relations.
  • Security Studies.
  • Economics.
  • Development Studies.
  • A related discipline.
• Strong interest in international security and conflict issues.
• Ability to work with quantitative information and datasets.
• Strong written English skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to accurately handle research materials and data.
• Availability to begin the role as soon as possible.

Desirable Skills and Experience

Additional skills that will strengthen an application include:

• Experience working with spreadsheets or research datasets.
• Knowledge of French and/or Spanish.
• Experience conducting academic or policy research.
• Strong analytical and organisational skills.

Why Apply for the IISS Internship?

This internship provides an excellent opportunity for students and early-career researchers to gain professional experience in one of the world’s leading strategic research institutions.

The successful candidate will develop valuable skills in:

• Security and conflict research.
• Policy analysis.
• Data collection and interpretation.
• Research writing.
• International affairs.
• Think tank operations.

The experience can support future careers in:

• International organisations.
• Government and diplomacy.
• Research institutions.
• Security and development sectors.
• Policy and advocacy organisations.

Application Process

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• A cover letter explaining the skills and experience they can bring to the role.
• A full Curriculum Vitae (CV).

Applications must be submitted through the IISS recruitment portal before:

Deadline: 4 August 2026

The recruitment process will include an in-person interview at the candidate’s nearest IISS office. Selected candidates should be prepared to travel for the interview process.

IISS is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this programme. Please do not send applications or supporting documents to GSO. All applications should be submitted directly through the official Shelter City application platform before the stated deadline.

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