Digital Forensic Research Lab, Engagement Intern – Spring 2025 Young Global Professionals Program

Job Location: Washington, DC headquarters on a hybrid schedule (4 days per week in office)
Employment Type: Temporary
Seniority Level: Intern
Job Category: Staff

Description

The rise of the internet and online social networks has altered the scope and scale at which people access, consume, and communicate information. But the same technologies that have democratized access to information have also enabled malicious actors who seek to undermine our democratic values and processes. The Digital Forensic Research Lab (DFRLab) is a first of its kind organization with technical and policy expertise on disinformation, connective technologies, democracy, and the future of digital rights. Incubated at the Atlantic Council in 2016, the DFRLab is a field-builder, studying, defining, and informing approaches to the global information ecosystem and the technology that underpins it. We are an action-oriented team producing timely primary research, training an ecosystem of others who share our passion, and convening those on the front lines of our industry to elevate new ideas and chart a path forward.

The successful candidate will have a deep enthusiasm for, and belief in, the importance of our work. They will have an entrepreneurial ethos and a collegial spirit, while also being an effective communicator. They will thrive in a work culture of continual learning, enhanced by an inclination toward deadlines. Last but not least, they will evidence a demonstrated interest in international affairs, complemented by a background in communications or a related field, gained through class work and/or professional experience.

Applications reflecting strong, English-language writing and editing skills will be prioritized for consideration – please note this is a communications- and events-focused role and not a research position. This internship is based in our Washington, DC headquarters on a hybrid schedule (4 days per week in office), and requires in-person availability for events at our office. The intern will be compensated at a rate of $17.75 per hour.

Responsibilities

• Assist with logistical and administrative duties necessary for DFRLab programming, as needed;
• Support logistics and preparation of material for DFRLab’s global training program;
• Collaborate on event planning and organization and assist with day-of-event management;
• Draft events preparation material, speakers’ briefs, and background information;
• Manage program contact lists and metrics;
• Draft correspondence and take notes at Council roundtables and strategy sessions for program archives;
• Assist in the daily production of social media posts across multiple platforms;
• Assist in the creation of DFRLab promotional materials;
• Track DFRLab media mentions and manage team metrics;
• Assist in the publication and maintenance of DFRLab’s online products;
• Conduct ad hoc research tasks to support the activities of the Lab and its management team;
• Assist with the editing and preparation of research briefs.

Qualifications

Technical Skills

• Significant experience across major social media platforms is required, ideally paired with basic knowledge of CMS, including WordPress;
• A basic understanding of graphic design principles (typeface, color theory, etc.) is highly desired;
• Proficiency in MS Office suite and graphic design software (Canva and/or Adobe products);
• Comfort with video editing software (preferably Adobe Premiere) is highly desired;
• Strong writing and editing skills are required;

Aptitudes and Abilities

• Demonstrable interest in the intersection of digital engagement and citizenship, human rights, international affairs, tech, and journalism, and future of the global digital communications;
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (both verbal and written – live and virtual), including the ability to identify and work through challenges, underscored by strong judgment and emotional intelligence;
• Strong analytical, planning, time management, and organizational skills;
• Poise and professionalism in a team environment and across hierarchies with colleagues and counterparts in the United States and abroad;
• International experience and foreign language skills are highly desired;

Practical Requirements

• Must have education or experience equivalent to an associate degree-level in international relations, human rights, journalism, digital communications, and/or the digital engagement space. Recent graduates are also encouraged to apply;
• Must be eligible to work in the United States on a full-time basis without sponsorship – this role requires a minimum 32hr/wk commitment.
• Must read, write, and speak English fluently.
• Must be able to work a hybrid schedule and provide on-site event support at our Washington, DC headquarters.

Applications close Sunday, November 10, 2024, at 11:59 pm ET (4:59 am GMT) and require a resume and cover letter.