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Information for Interns

Find out about current internship positions available.

General Information

A limited number of internships are offered at Chatham House. These positions are unpaid.

Interns are appointed for a period of three months. The work performed by interns is supervised and its content depends on the Programme/Department they join. It can range from research work and the preparation of draft reports to the compilation of statistical data, administrative duties, assisting with event and media management, etc.

Successful applicants can expect to gain direct exposure to the work and management of a leading think-tank with a multinational presence.

There is an initial trial period. Working hours are flexible. We are happy to consider applications for full time or for part time work.

When considering candidate applications, Chatham House is not able to offer assistance in finding accommodation, nor can it apply for work permits or visas for these assignments.

Chatham House also cannot guarantee a response to unsolicited applications in all cases.

Alis Martin
Internship Co-ordinator
+44 (0)20 7314 3632
Email Alis Martin

Application Procedure

Various internship opportunities may become available throughout the year, we advise that you visit our web page regularly.

All posts are advertised when they become available. Please apply only when there is a post available. Internship positions available.

Applicants for internships should send:

  • A full Curriculum Vitae;
  • A covering letter including a brief description of why you want to do an internship at Chatham House;
  • Two letters of reference, with at least one from a faculty member, and contact details of referees

Applications should be emailed to the contact person/department advertising the position.

If chosen, applicants should expect to come for a short interview at the House.

We very much regret that due to limited resources and the large number of applications we receive, we are only able to inform shortlisted candidates of the outcome of their application. If you do not hear from us within two weeks of the closing date, please assume that you have been unsuccessful on this occasion. If your application is not successful, we hope that you will not be discouraged and will still apply for other suitable vacancies at Chatham House as and when they are advertised.

Internship Benefits

Internship benefits include:

  • Access to the Members Events programme programme addressed by international leaders, UK politicians, diplomats, academics, business leaders, media, researchers and other experts;
  • Access to research seminars, workshops and discussion groups hosted by our regional and thematic research areas;
  • Access to conferences on a wide range of emerging issues critical to business and policy interests;
  • Access to the Under 35s Forum*;
    Complimentary copies of our monthly magazine The World Today, our bimonthly journal International Affairs and the monthly Chatham House Newsletter;
  • One year's free web-membership** on completion of internship;
  • Access to the Library and Information Service, including wifi internet access, print and electronic material (comprising 150,000 books and pamphlets, 300 periodicals, 30 current newspapers in English and other languages, access to online subscription services), complimentary research enquiry service and the free loan of up to 10 books at any one time;
  • Free lunch at Chatham House;
  • Travel reimbursement for London Zones 1 & 2 only, for the days worked.

* Under 35s Forum
Under 35s Forum created for and run by the younger members of Chatham House to discuss the international issues of interest to them and for peer networking.

** Web-Membership
Web members have access to the Members' Zone of our website which includes a fully searchable archive of more than 300 transcripts and recordings of events held at Chatham House, current and archive issues of The World Today and International Affairs.

Web membership is available to those individuals who wish to enjoy the benefits of membership but are unable to attend events at Chatham House. Web members are entitled to make two visits per year to Chatham House to attend events in the Members' Events programme or research events.

Former Intern Testimonials

"Interning at Chatham House was a valuable and rewarding experience. The chance to attend events and see well-known speakers in a stimulating environment was a privilege. The internship has also given me valuable work experience whilst complementing my academic interests. Interns are trusted as valuable members of the team and my co-workers were extremely helpful and welcoming. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to intern at Chatham House."

Shruti Vijayakumar, International Economics Programme Intern

"Working as an intern at Chatham House has been one of the most interesting experiences I have known. There is a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere about the building which can only exist amongst people who are truly professional. If it's a breaking-news story on the other side of the world or a breaking-news story at an event in the basement, it's a real privilege to be one of the first to hear the best analysis from the world's top experts. I sometimes wonder if I've learnt more in the last few months than I did as an undergraduate.

That Chatham House is on one of the most attractive squares in Central London and is surrounded by the never-ending buzz of the West End doesn't hurt either. You're never going to be stuck for something to do after work - even if it's just a walk in the park.

Tomorrow, the UN Secretary General is making his first speech in the UK at Chatham House. An extra jolt of electricity runs through the walls here when an important speaker comes around. It's addictive."

George Leigh, External Communications and Members Events Intern

"Internships at Chatham House are an invaluable opportunity to gain creditable experience in the field of international affairs at one of the world's most famous and well-respected institutions. The institute is steeped in history and allows unparalleled access to the most important policy-makers and analysts of the day.

During my time here I have had the opportunity to listen to many high profile speakers, engage with experts in the field and have been given a real insight into the inner workings of a think tank.

Interns at Chatham House occupy an important role which goes beyond merely carrying out administrative tasks. As the intern for The World Today I have been lucky enough to have been included at every stage of the process - from picture research, to assisting at roundtable discussions, to editing and more besides. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity and firmly believe that the experience I have gained as an intern at Chatham House will continue to help me for years to come."

Tom Patterson, The World Today Intern