Navigating German Marshall Fund Internships: Requirements and Opportunities

The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) stands as a prominent think tank and public policy organization dedicated to fortifying transatlantic cooperation and fostering understanding and collaboration between North America and Europe. In an increasingly complex global landscape, GMF plays a crucial role in providing in-depth analysis and facilitating dialogue on critical issues shaping the transatlantic relationship and beyond. GMF is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Value of a GMF Internship

A GMF internship offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of international policy, contribute to meaningful projects, and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and dynamics that shape global relations. Participants leave with a significantly enhanced understanding of transatlantic issues and a more nuanced understanding of the diverse cultures in North America and Europe. It allows individuals to engage with critical global issues, contribute to research and analysis, and interact with experts, policymakers, and scholars from diverse backgrounds. The GMF internship allows participants to develop skills such as research, writing, communication, and event organization.

Key Areas of Engagement

GMF internships span a wide array of topics, reflecting the organization's broad focus on transatlantic issues. Some common areas of engagement include:

Research and Analysis: Interns at GMF often have the chance to work on research projects related to international security, economics, politics, and social issues.
Events and Conferences: GMF regularly organizes conferences, workshops, and events that bring together experts, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss pressing global challenges. These events provide a platform for interns to assist GMF staff with events implementation.

Specific Example: Strategic Democracy Initiatives

GMF’s Strategic Democracy Initiatives workstream is seeking a part-time program trainee for the period from September 2025 - January 2026 to assist with program support, research assistance, and network coordination associated with the establishment of a new initiative on the Military, Democracy, and Society (MDS). This example highlights the specific opportunities that can arise within GMF's various programs.

Trainees will benefit from exposure to GMF’s experts and network and will gain valuable research, analysis, and writing experience. The traineeship will consist of both in-person and remote work. The position will be compensated at a rate of $17.50 per hour with a flexible time commitment of 20-30 hours per week. GMF is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We highly encourage individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to apply.

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Geostrategy Hub

The Geostrategy Hub is GMF’s largest hub, comprising 80+ GMF programmatic, administrative staff, and fellows combined. The hub provides decision-makers, policymakers, and business leaders on both sides of the Atlantic with the most in-depth and comprehensive analysis of the political, economic, and strategic trends impacting them. With the international environment being increasingly defined by geopolitical competition, the environmental crisis, and hybrid threats, managing these risks requires adopting a geostrategy.

Core Requirements for GMF Internships

While specific requirements may vary depending on the particular internship or program, some general qualifications and skills are commonly sought by GMF:

Educational Background: A background in policy or international affairs or a related field is generally expected, or being a recent graduate of such a program.
Research Skills: Experience in research is highly valued, with a preference for candidates who have demonstrated research experience.
Communication Skills: Strong writing and communication skills are essential for contributing to research projects and engaging with various policy actors.
Technical Proficiency: Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) is essential. Experience in database systems is preferred. Proficiency in HTML/CSS, Drupal, or WordPress is a plus but not required.
Personal Attributes: Candidates should be creative, organized, committed, and responsible.
Language Skills: European language(s) are a plus.
Database Management: Experience in database management is a plus.

The Application Process

Applying for a GMF internship usually involves submitting an application that includes a resume, cover letter, and sometimes writing samples or references. The duration of GMF internships can vary, but they typically last for a few months.

A Focus on Diversity and Inclusion

GMF acknowledges that diversity, equity, and inclusion touch on all aspects of their workplace. GMF is dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. If you are excited about a role, but your experience does not align perfectly, GMF encourages you to apply.

The MMF Program: A Deeper Dive into Transatlantic Understanding

Aside from thematic discussions, the MMF program offers leadership development for mid-career professionals with an immersive, structured learning experience that deepens their understanding of specific themes, cultures, and professional practices. Through virtual and in-person interactions, fellows have the opportunity to connect with a variety of high-level and multi-sectoral stakeholders. They build lasting professional and personal connections through networking activities such as home visits and alumni receptions. On-the-ground individual appointments offer the fellows self-paced and sector-specific networking development opportunities.

This knowledge is enriched by the immersive in-person component of the MMF program, which provides nontraditional approaches tailored to the local context to address transatlantic themes and current events. This experience provides fellowship recipients with a strengthened, multi-sectoral network that spans the Atlantic.

Through the MMF Research Plan, fellows will elaborate a research question unique to their professional or personal interests that will function as a framework and help guide their in-person leadership development experience. This goal is achieved by guiding participants through a comprehensive process of preparation, active engagement, and reflective analysis. The plan aims to foster personal and professional growth, equipping participants with new insights, skills, and perspectives that they can apply in their post-travel professional contexts.

Specific Responsibilities

Interns may be involved in various tasks, including:

Preparations for GMF’s annual Brussels Forum.
Assisting GMF staff with events implementation.
Working with program templates and newsletters.
Other duties as assigned.

GMF's Areas of Focus

GMF covers a range of issues, from foreign policy and security to economic development and cultural exchange. Their work encompasses:

The future of democracy.
Security and geopolitics.
Alliances and the rise of China.
Technology and innovation.
American foreign policy and the future of geopolitics.
Transatlantic cooperation in the Asia-Pacific.

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