Communications Intern, Spring 2027

Period: January-May 2027 (Part-Time)
Location: Washington, DC Deadline for Application: November 5, 2026

About ORF America

The Observer Research Foundation America (ORF America) is an independent, non-partisan, and nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing policy challenges facing the United States, India, and their partners in a rapidly changing world. It produces research, curates diverse and inclusive platforms, and develops networks for cooperation between the developed and developing worlds based on common values and shared interests.

ORF America was established in 2020 and is an overseas affiliate of the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), India’s premier non-government think tank. Its areas of focus include strategic and security affairs; technology policy; climate, energy, and sustainability; and economic policy. ORF America is an equal opportunity employer and hires staff without regard to race, religion, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability.

Paid Spring Internship Program

Fall and spring internships at ORF America allow undergraduate and graduate students in the Washington DC area an opportunity for academic, professional, and personal development. Interns work closely with fellows and program managers to assist with research, writing, communications and other programming tasks.

We are looking for an intern to provide support to our Communications team at ORF America during the spring of 2027. This paid internship will require in-person work at ORF America’s office in Washington, DC.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Contributing to social media and external outreach

  • Designing visual assets for promotional materials and research projects across programs

  • Assisting the Communications Coordinator with the production, editing, and promotion of Around the World with Dhruva Jaishankar and Rachel Rizzo

  • Drafting, designing, and disseminating LinkedIn newsletters

  • Providing communications and logistical support for events such as photography and videography

  • Tracking content analytics to inform communications strategy and improve traffic and audience engagement

Qualifications

  • Enrollment in a relevant undergraduate or graduate degree program at an accredited college or university in the Washington DC area

  • Eligibility to work in the United States; ORF America does not sponsor visas for interns

  • Background in journalism, communications, international relations, public policy, political science, or another relevant field

  • Social media proficiency (Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, X, YouTube)

  • Strong graphic design and writing skills in addition to attention to detail

  • Ability to work within a team and efficiently handle multiple tasks while under tight deadlines

  • Proficiency with Canva, Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, and/or Riverside

  • Experience with podcast promotion (Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts), audience growth, and engagement strategies

  • Knowledge and familiarity with content analytics and website management (Squarespace)

  • Familiarity with or demonstrated interest in using AI tools for content optimization, website discoverability, and SEO strategies

  • Fluency in English

Compensation

This position is paid on an hourly basis ($20/hour). Interns will be expected to work 15 hours/week. 

How to Apply

Interested applicants should send their resume and a cover letter (no more than a page) in a single PDF document to orfamerica@orfamerica.org. Please include: “Spring 2027: Communications Internship” in the subject line. ORF America will contact only those candidates who are extended an interview.

Observer Research Foundation America, 1100 17th St. NW, Suite 501, Washington DC 20036 USA