
About Middle East Institute
Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute is the oldest Washington-based institution dedicated solely to the study of the Middle East. It is a non-partisan think tank providing expert policy analysis, educational and professional development services, and a hub for engaging with the region's arts and culture.
Job Title Communications and Multimedia Intern
Department: Communications
Location: 1763 N Street NW, Washington DC
Compensation: Unpaid
Duration: Fall 2026: September 8, 2026 - December 11, 2026
Minimum of 15-20 hours a week, onsite at MEI (1763 N Street NW)
Internship Description
As a Communications and Multimedia Intern, you will support the communications department with the production of MEI's products, including web content, mailers, podcasts, and social media. You will also gain hands-on experience with AV production for MEI's events.
Key Responsibilities:
·Produce media for products including maps, thumbnails, infographics, and social media posts
·Support video/podcast production and editing
·Assist with AV and photography for MEI's events
·Participate in team meetings, seminars, and training sessions as required
Educational Objectives:
Gain practical experience translating policy and analysis into accessible formats
Develop skills in communications, social media, AV production, and graphic design
Qualifications:
·Enrolled in or a recent graduate of a bachelor's program in International Relations, Political Science, Middle East Studies, Communications, Digital Media, or a related field
·Demonstrated interest in the Middle East and multimedia production
·Familiarity with and/or strong desire to learn Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, and Microsoft Office
·Interest in photography and/or AV production
·Enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills
Benefits:
·Hands-on experience in nonprofit communications, digital media, and outreach
·Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals
·Networking opportunities
Note: Please be aware that this is an unpaid internship with no promise or expectation of compensation, express or implied. Furthermore, participation in this internship does not entitle interns to a paid job after the internship.

Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute (MEI) is the oldest Washington, DC-based institution dedicated exclusively to the study of the Middle East. Its founders, scholar George Camp Keiser and former US Secretary of State Christian Herter laid out a simple mandate: “to increase knowledge of the Middle East among the citizens of the United States and to promote a better understanding between the people of these two areas.” MEI is a respected, non-partisan voice in the field of Middle East studies.