The advent of the internet and online social networks has fundamentally transformed how people access, consume, and communicate information, bringing about significant changes in both the scale and scope of these activities. While these technologies have democratized information access, they have also provided opportunities for malicious actors to undermine our democratic values and processes. The Digital Forensic Research Lab (DFRLab) is a unique organization that possesses expertise in both technical and policy aspects of disinformation, connective technologies, democracy, and the future of digital rights. Established in 2016 as a project of the Atlantic Council, the DFRLab plays a pioneering role in studying, defining, and informing approaches to the global information ecosystem and the underlying technology behind it. With a focus on action, the DFRLab conducts timely primary research, trains a network of like-minded individuals, and brings together industry experts to generate new ideas and pave the way forward.
The ideal candidate for this position should possess a strong passion for and belief in the significance of our work, along with an entrepreneurial mindset and a collaborative nature. Effective communication skills are essential for this role. We foster a work environment that encourages ongoing learning, values meeting deadlines, and places importance on international affairs. Candidates with a background in communications or a related field, acquired through coursework and/or practical experience, are highly preferred.
Applicants who demonstrate excellent writing and editing abilities will receive priority in the selection process. This internship is ideally located in our Washington, DC headquarters and follows a hybrid schedule. The compensation for this position is $17 per hour.
Internship Summary:
- Location: Our Washington, DC headquarters with a hybrid schedule.
- Type of Employment: Temporary Seniority
- Level: Intern
- Job Category: Staff
Responsibilities:
- Provide assistance with logistical and administrative tasks as required for DFRLab programming.
- Support the coordination and preparation of materials for the global training program offered by DFRLab.
- Collaborate on the planning and organization of events, and help manage logistics on the day of the events.
- Prepare drafts of materials for events, including preparation materials, briefs for speakers, and background information.
- Manage contact lists and track metrics related to program activities.
- Draft correspondence and take notes during Council roundtables and strategy sessions, ensuring proper archiving of program information.
- Aid in the development of promotional materials for DFRLab.
- Monitor media mentions and track team metrics for DFRLab.
- Assist in publishing and maintaining online products produced by DFRLab.
- Conduct research tasks as needed to support the activities of the Lab and its management team.
- Assist with editing and preparing research briefs for publication.
Qualifications:
- Must be at least a college junior in good standing, a graduate student, or a recent graduate student in fields such as international relations, human rights, journalism, technology trends, digital communications, and/or the digital engagement space.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, in live and virtual settings, including the ability to navigate challenges effectively, demonstrating strong judgment and emotional intelligence.
- Strong analytical, planning, time management, and organizational skills.
- Significant experience using major social media platforms, with basic knowledge of content management systems (CMS) such as WordPress and/or Wix.
- Proficiency and adeptness in research and writing.
- Basic understanding of graphic design principles, including typeface and color theory, is highly desired.
- Proficiency in MS Office suite and graphic design software such as Canva and/or Adobe products.
- Demonstrated interest in the intersection of digital engagement and citizenship, human rights, international affairs, technology, journalism, and the future of global digital communications.
- Comfort and familiarity with video editing software, preferably Adobe Premiere, is highly desired.
- Poise and professionalism in a team environment, collaborating across hierarchies with colleagues and counterparts both in the United States and internationally.
- International experience and foreign language skills are highly desired.
- Must be eligible to work in the United States on a full-time basis (40 hours/week).
Application Last Date:
The deadline for applications is 11:59pm ET on Friday, June 9, 2024 (4:59am GMT). To apply, please submit a resume and a cover letter.
