At a Glance
- Tasks: Contribute to impactful research projects and develop policy insights.
- Company: Join the International Centre for Sustainability, a leading think tank in London.
- Benefits: Receive a £250 monthly stipend for travel expenses while gaining invaluable experience.
- Other info: Full-time, hybrid internship with excellent opportunities for skill development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference tackling global challenges and enhance your career prospects.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree relevant to your chosen research desk.
The predicted salary is between 3000 - 3000 € per month.
The International Centre for Sustainability (ICfS) is recruiting 4 Research and Policy Interns for the Autumn 2026 internship cycle. We are hiring across the following research desks:
- Strengthening Democracy Desk
- Security and Mutual Dependence Desk
- Future of Faiths Desk
- Director General’s Office (market & policy architecture projects, Aug – Nov 2026)
These are full-time, hybrid research internships for a three or four-month period starting in September 2026. This is an unpaid internship focused on work experience. The ICfS will provide a stipend of £250 per month to contribute to travel expenses to our London office.
Eligibility: You must be eligible to work in the UK, as we are unable to sponsor visas. If you’re passionate about tackling complex global challenges and want to make meaningful contributions early in your career - this opportunity is for you!
Role Description: As an intern, you will directly contribute to impactful projects, gaining hands-on experience in research methods, data analysis, and policy development. This internship offers a valuable opportunity to develop your expertise and build a wide skill set relevant for careers in international relations, public policy, and governance.
Qualifications:
- Academic Background: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree relevant to the research desk you are applying for.
- Research Experience: Demonstrable ability to conduct literature reviews and undertake independent research (e.g. through dissertations or coursework).
- Proactive Attitude: Initiative to identify challenges and propose solutions independently.
- Team Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills for working effectively in diverse and dynamic team environments.
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to interpret data and extract meaningful insights with a focus on actionable outcomes.
- Communication Skills: Strong written and oral communication abilities, with an emphasis on clarity and precision.
- Organisational Ability: Skill in managing multiple tasks, meeting deadlines, and maintaining accuracy in deliverables.
- Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Adaptability: Flexibility to accommodate evolving priorities and project requirements.
About the ICfS: The International Centre for Sustainability is a London based independent think tank committed to fostering deeper alliances between the US-UK-India and other global stakeholders. For us this means to strengthen people to people ties on a basis of a shared vision and shared values, to deliver better governance.
Research and Policy Intern in City of London employer: International Centre for Sustainability (ICfS)
The International Centre for Sustainability (ICfS) is an exceptional employer for those seeking to make a meaningful impact in the fields of international relations and public policy. With a collaborative work culture that values diverse perspectives, interns will gain invaluable hands-on experience while contributing to significant projects in a vibrant London setting. The ICfS not only offers a stipend to assist with travel expenses but also provides a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth, making it an ideal launchpad for aspiring professionals.
Contact Detail:
International Centre for Sustainability (ICfS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research and Policy Intern in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the ICfS inside out! Research their projects, values, and recent publications. This will not only help you tailor your approach but also show your genuine interest during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former interns on LinkedIn, attend relevant events, and engage in discussions about sustainability. Building relationships can give you insider tips and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to research and policy. Think about how your skills align with the specific desk you're applying for, and be ready to share examples of your work.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through the ICfS website! It’s the only way to ensure your application gets seen. Make sure your submission is polished and reflects your passion for tackling global challenges.
We think you need these skills to ace Research and Policy Intern in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the specific research desk you're applying to. Highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the role, showing us why you're the perfect fit!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for tackling global challenges shine through in your application. We want to see your genuine interest in sustainability and policy development, so don’t hold back on sharing what drives you!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and keep your points concise. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and get straight to the point.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only consider applications submitted via the ICfS website. So, make sure to apply there to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at International Centre for Sustainability (ICfS)
✨Know Your Research Desk
Before the interview, dive deep into the specific research desk you're applying for. Understand its focus areas and recent projects. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your answers to align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with data analysis and literature reviews. Bring examples from your academic work or previous internships that highlight your ability to interpret data and draw actionable insights. This is crucial for a role focused on policy development.
✨Demonstrate Proactivity
The ICfS values a proactive attitude, so think of instances where you've identified challenges and proposed solutions. Share these examples during your interview to illustrate your initiative and problem-solving skills.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication skills are key for this internship. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Whether it's discussing your research experience or answering questions, clarity and precision will make a positive impression.
