National Security & Space Intern - Strong Writing & Research Skills

Washington, DC | Minimum 20 hours/week | In-Office with Remote Opportunities (Starting Jan 2027)

Job Description 

Protagonist is seeking a highly motivated intern with an interest inspace and national security to join our team in Washington, D.C. for the Spring 2027 semester. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to research and analysis supporting work with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). The intern will assist with researching and writing on topics related to space, emerging technologies, and strategic communications, gaining exposure to mission-relevant national security and policy issues.

This role supports senior team members in developing communications research and guidance related to mission-relevant initiatives for DoD stakeholders. Responsibilities include assisting with translating technical and analytical information into clear written materials, such as research summaries, draft reports, and briefing inputs. The position also involves researching and analyzing the media and information environment and applying established communications frameworks to inform client-focused insights. Through collaboration with experienced professionals, the role contributes to the development of communication plans and strategic messaging by supporting background research, content drafting, and material preparation, providing hands-on exposure to professional communications, media engagement, and executive communications practices.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and critically analyze information to identify trends, patterns, and relationships. 
• Apply relevant communication theories, psychological frameworks, and best practices to address client problems.
• Synthesize open-source research and write independently on space related topics.
• Analyze U.S. Government speeches, websites, and social media communications and present findings to senior team members.
• Draft, review, and edit reports, documents, and briefings.
• Assist in developing and delivering presentations.

Requirements 

• Authorized to work in the US
• Currently enrolled in a BA degree seeking program (current MA or MS students preferred)
• Must be able to work on U.S. Government contracts that may be restricted to U.S. citizens; existing security clearance (SECRET or higher) a plus
• Strong research and writing skills are required, including ability to synthesize open-source research and independently write on space-related topics
• Course work in international relations and/or a focus in communications and related fields is a plus.
• Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills; able to communicate complex problems with clarity
• Able to work independently as well as part of a cross-functional team
• Ability to meet tight deadlines, under pressure, with outstanding attention to detail
• Love working in a fast-paced, startup environment full of complexity, ambiguity and change
• Available to work a minimum of 20 hours/week throughout the semester
• This is not a fully remote position; interns must be able to work in our Washington D.C. office 1-2 days per week

Additional Information

If you’re passionate about technology and making an impact, apply today! Protagonist is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and innovative environment where everyone’s voice can make a difference. 

Protagonist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The internship pays $20.00 / hour or the applicable local minimum wage rate, whichever is higher.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.