Weekly Opportunity Board
Welcome to the Weekly Opportunity Board, your central hub for the latest internships, fellowships, and full-time roles in international affairs and beyond. Each week, we curate and share relevant opportunities to support your academic, professional, and career development. Check back regularly to stay informed and make the most of what’s out there.
PhD Positions
PhD in War Studies at the Swedish Defence University - Deadline: August 24
The Swedish Defence University is offering several fully funded PhD positions in War Studies beginning January 2027 in Stockholm. Doctoral candidates will complete a four-year research program focused on topics including war studies, Russian warfare, gender, peace and security, and logistics, while contributing to teaching and departmental activities. Applicants should hold a master's degree with a strong background in war studies, international relations, political science, security studies, or a related field, demonstrate excellent English proficiency, and submit an original research proposal. The positions include full funding, a starting salary of SEK 32,600 per month (approximately €3,000) and an annual research budget. Learn more here.
Entry-Level Positions
EuroCommerce Communications Assistant – Deadline: Rolling Application
EuroCommerce, the voice of retail and wholesale in Europe, is offering a full-time Communications Assistant position based in Brussels on a permanent contract, with a start date as soon as possible and a competitive salary. The role involves creating engaging digital content, managing website content and email campaigns, maintaining visual and editorial brand standards, and supporting member communications while ensuring GDPR compliance. Candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Political Sciences, European Studies, or a related field, be fluent in English (additional European languages are a bonus), have a passion for design and digital trends, be comfortable with Microsoft Office, and possess experience or strong interest in social media and stakeholder engagement.. Learn more here.
EAPN Policy and Advocacy Assistant – Deadline: August 20
European Anti-Poverty Network is offering a Policy and Advocacy Assistant position in Brussels under a 6-month Belgian CIP contract, starting in September 2026, with a monthly salary of €1,095, plus benefits including home working days, meal vouchers, and reimbursement of STIB monthly subscription. The role involves supporting the monitoring of EU and national policy developments on poverty and social exclusion, preparing policy briefings and analytical documents, assisting with advocacy activities towards EU institutions, and working closely with the Communications Team. Candidates should be recent graduates in political science, European studies, social sciences, law, international relations, or a related field, with a demonstrated interest in social policy, advocacy, human rights, or anti-poverty work, along with strong research and analytical skills, organizational abilities, and a commitment to social justice. Previous experience in an NGO, EU institution, or civil society organization is desirable, as is familiarity with EU policy processes and additional languages. Learn more here.
Internships and Fellowships
"Ukraine Support Tracker" Research Project Intern– Deadline: Rolling Application
The Kiel Institute for the World Economy, Research Center "International Finance," is offering a full-time (38.7h/week) internship for its research project "The Ukraine Support Tracker," starting in Autumn 2026 in Kiel, Germany, with a remuneration of €650/month for Bachelor students and €1,000/month for Master students, plus optional low-cost accommodation in the institute's "Haus Weltclub." The intern will actively participate in the research agenda exploring international donation flows to Ukraine, focusing on humanitarian, financial, and military bilateral aid, with the primary task of processing and quantifying micro-level data on bilateral aid pledges and deliveries using Excel. Candidates should have a sound academic background in economics, political science, international relations, security studies, or a related field, be enrolled as a student, have an interest in working with data (experience with data collection and Python/R is a plus), be motivated, proactive, and able to work independently and reliably, and possess very good English skills (German not required). Learn more here.
Internship – Politico-Military Dimension, OSCE Secretariat – Deadline: Rolling Application
The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is seeking interns for 2–6 month placements within its Politico-Military Dimension, offering experience in areas such as arms control, security sector reform, conflict prevention, counterterrorism, cyber security, and policing. Interns support research, policy drafting, project management, event organization, and the work of OSCE decision-making bodies. Applicants should be under 30, have completed at least two years of post-secondary education (or graduated within the past two years) in a relevant field, and possess excellent English-language skills. The internship is unpaid, although some duty stations may provide a contribution toward living expenses for non-resident interns. Learn more here.
Intern in the Strategy and Cooperation for Reconstruction and Reforms Programme in Ukraine – Deadline: August 20
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) is offering a full-time internship in Berlin with its Strategy and Cooperation for Reconstruction and Reforms in Ukraine programme, specifically supporting the secretariat of the Reconstruction Ukraine Platform, starting from 01 November 2026 to 30 April 2027, with a monthly salary of €2,349 (gross). The intern will support the secretariat team in planning and executing virtual and in-person events with German and Ukrainian stakeholders, maintaining and designing the platform's website and LinkedIn presence, supporting communications activities, providing organizational support for workshops and webinars, conducting technical research, and preparing brief reports and analyses. Candidates should be enrolled in political science, social sciences, or a related field, possess initial practical experience through relevant internships or part-time jobs (e.g., with ministries or German development cooperation), express themselves confidently in both German and English, have good knowledge of MS Office programs; prior experience with Ukraine reconstruction stakeholders, knowledge of reconstruction or peace/conflict issues are considered advantageous. Learn more here.
Internship in German and European Climate Policy (EU Climate Policy Focus) – Deadline: August 23
Germanwatch is seeking a full-time (40 hours/week) Intern to support its work on German and European climate policy, with a particular focus on EU climate policy, beginning October 1, 2026, in Bonn or Berlin (remote work within Germany is also possible). The internship offers a monthly stipend of €400 and provides hands-on experience at one of Germany's leading environmental NGOs. The successful candidate will support workshops and stakeholder engagement with partners in France, Germany, and Poland, conduct background research on EU climate policy, contribute to communications and social media, assist with internal strategy meetings, and support project coordination and administrative tasks. Applicants should be enrolled in a relevant university program, possess knowledge of EU institutions and European climate policy, demonstrate strong organizational and research skills, and have excellent German and English language abilities. French or Polish language skills and experience organizing events are considered assets. Learn more here.
BCCN-YCW Berlin Mentorship Program – Deadline: August 23
The Berlin Contemporary China Network and Young China Watchers Berlin are launching the 2nd round of their mentorship program, based in Berlin. Each mentee will be connected with a mentor based on their career interests from a pool of experienced China-focused professionals. Participants are expected to attend several in-person networking events, including one-on-one meetings with their mentor and group events with the wider cohort throughout the 2026-2027 academic year, and mentees are expected to actively drive the relationship with their mentor. Candidates should be based in Berlin, have excellent academic records and relevant initial professional experience (including internships), be either a recent (within 2 years of graduation) or current MA or PhD student, demonstrate a strong interest in and dedication to building a China-related career, and possess strong organizational and communication abilities. Learn more here.
Public & Leadership Programme Student Assistant – Deadline: August 23
The Aspen Institute Germany, is seeking a Student Assistant for its Public & Leadership Programme, starting 1 September 2026 through 31 August 2027, with 20 hours per week, appropriate remuneration, flexible working hours, and remote working by arrangement. The role involves organizational and technical support for the preparation, execution, and follow-up of virtual, hybrid, and in-person events, conducting research and content preparation for events and publications, contributing to social media communication and digital content creation, assisting with project analyses and database maintenance. Candidates should be enrolled students in a relevant field of study with an interest in international politics, transatlantic relations, democracy, and social dialogue, possess excellent German and English skills (spoken and written), have experience using social media (knowledge of image editing or layout programs is an advantage). Learn more here.
Planning Ahead: Security Internship & Fellowship Programs
This section highlights recurring internship and fellowship programmes with structured, once- or twice-yearly application cycles. These opportunities are offered regularly by leading institutions, allowing you to plan ahead and prepare strong applications. Use this overview as a reference point for longer-term career planning alongside the weekly postings.
© European Union Institute for Security Studies (EUISS)
European Union Institute for Security Studies
The European Union Institute for Security Studies (EUISS) traineeship programme offers 10-month placements in Paris or Brussels for young graduates interested in EU foreign and security policy.
The programme provides hands-on experience in policy-oriented research, event organisation, and outreach, with trainees working closely under the supervision of EUISS analysts and contributing to specific regional or thematic portfolios (e.g., cyber, Russia, MENA, Indo-Pacific).
It is open to EU nationals with a Master’s degree in relevant fields (e.g., political science, international relations, economics), strong research and analytical skills, and proficiency in English plus another EU language.
Application deadline is typically in late April, but applicants should verify with the EUISS.
© The George C. Marshall Center
George C. Marshall European Center’s College for International Security Studies
The George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies offers internships lasting 8–12 weeks (longer if required by a study program) for bachelor’s and master’s students.
Applicants must be 1) enrolled at a university for the entire internship; 2) not have previously completed an internship with a German federal agency; and 3) study a relevant field (e.g., political science, law, international relations, economics). The program is open to all nationalities, though non-EU applicants require a work permit under German regulations.
The program accepts applications twice a year, typically in May and October. Learn more here.
© Young Security Conference
Young Security Conference Fellowship
The Young Security Conference Fellowship brings together young professionals and academics to examine the future of European security in a shifting geopolitical landscape.
The fellowship is open to applicants under 35 with relevant academic or professional backgrounds in fields like international relations or security policy. It particularly encourages candidates from EU/NATO countries, neighboring regions, and underrepresented groups.
Application deadline is typically in late September, but applicants should visit the YSC website for updates on application deadlines and procedures.
© NATO
NATO Internship Program
The NATO Internship Programme offers six-month paid placements at NATO Headquarters in Brussels for students and recent graduates interested in international security and policy.
The programme provides hands-on experience across a wide range of fields—including political affairs, defence, innovation, and communications—while giving participants insight into the inner workings of NATO. Interns also receive a stipend, training, and networking opportunities.
It is open to nationals of NATO member states aged 21+ who have completed at least two years of university study (or recently graduated), with proficiency in English or French and an interest in security-related fields.
The program accepts applications twice a year, typically in April and October. Learn more here.
© The Hague Center for Strategic Studies
The Hague Center for Strategic Studies
The The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies internship programme offers hands-on experience in a policy-oriented research environment, with placements typically lasting 5–6 months. Interns contribute to projects in areas such as international security, defence, climate and energy, and data analysis, supporting research, reports, and events. Specialized tracks (e.g., data science, water security, communications) allow for tailored experience.
The programme is open to enrolled university students with relevant academic backgrounds, strong analytical skills, and an interest in security-related topics. Interns receive mentorship, professional development opportunities, and a monthly stipend of €675.
Applications are accepted in two annual rounds: typically opening in December (for January/February start dates) and June (for July/August start dates). Learn more here.
© Federal Society for Security Policy
Bundesakademie für Sicherheitspolitik (Federal Society for Security Policy)
The Federal Academy for Security Policy offers paid internships of 3–6 months in Berlin for enrolled university students interested in security policy.
Interns gain hands-on experience in either policy research and event management or press and communications, contributing to seminars, research, and outreach activities in an interdisciplinary environment.
The programme is open to EU students with at least two years of study, strong German and English skills, and a demonstrated interest in security policy. Internships are offered in two annual cycles: typically January–July and September–December. Learn more here.
© INTERPOL
INTERPOL
The INTERPOL internship programme offers students and recent graduates hands-on experience within a global law enforcement organization, with placements across both policing and support functions such as communications, HR, and strategy. Interns gain insight into international police cooperation and the operations of a multicultural organization, while contributing to real projects.
Programmes typically last 6–11 months and are mainly based in Lyon. Interns are provided a a €675 monthly stipend, €30 transportation subsidy, and €170 housing subsidy (if eligible). Applicants are required to be enrolled in or recently graduated from higher education and fluent in English. Learn more here.
© PRIF
Peace Research Institute Frankfurt (PRIF)
The internship programme at the Peace Research Institute Frankfurt offers master’s students (particularly in peace and conflict studies or political science) the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in academic research. Interns are integrated into ongoing projects across key research areas, work independently under academic supervision, and contribute to real research outputs.
Internship placements are typically at least six weeks in duration and are unpaid. due ot high demand, applicants are encouraged to contact PRIF several months in advance to express interest. Learn more here.
© ESI
European Stability Initiative Junior Fellowship
The Junior Fellowship at the European Stability Initiative (ESI) offers a unique opportunity to work with a small, impactful think tank focused on policy research and advocacy.
Fellows are based in Berlin (or other ESI locations, remotely) and immerse themselves in topics ranging from EU enlargement to human rights.
Minimum of 3 months, full-time (some fellows stay for up to 9 months or longer) with a modest stipend of a few hundred euros per month. No fixed deadline, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more here.
© Partnership for Global Security
Della Ratta Global Energy and Security Fellowship
The Partnership for Global Security invites early-career professionals (including grad students) to apply for the Della Ratta Global Energy and Security Fellowship. This fully remote, six-month fellowship focuses on the intersection of nuclear energy, climate change, global security, geopolitics, and international energy security, with an emphasis on crosscutting policy analysis across multiple disciplines.
Fellows receive a $15,000 stipend. Due to visa limitations, applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Learn more here.
© ProFellow
Scoville Peace Fellowship
The Scoville JPeace Fellowship is a full-time, six-to-nine month fellowship in Washington, D.C. for recent college graduates and masters students interested in peace, arms control, and international security policy. Fellows are placed at leading nonprofit organizations and gain hands-on experience in policy research, advocacy, and public education while receiving a competitive salary, health insurance, and professional development support.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States, and the program gives preference to individuals who have not already had substantial public-interest or government experience in the Washington, D.C. area. Learn more here.
© The Nation
European Stability Initiative
The European Stability Initiative (ESI) offers a Junior Fellowship for aspiring researchers and policy analysts interested in European affairs, democracy, migration, and international politics. Based in one of ESI’s offices (including Berlin, Brussels, Istanbul, or elsewhere depending on projects), fellows work closely with the think tank’s team on research, writing, advocacy, and policy analysis.
There are no formal academic requirements, but exceptional English writing skills, intellectual curiosity, and a willingness to commit at least three months full-time are essential. Learn more here.