Chatham House Molchanov Sustainability Internship 2026–2027 in London, UK: Paid Six-Month Opportunity for Future Leaders in International Affairs and Sustainability

Applications are now open for the highly competitive Molchanov Sustainability Internship 2026–2027 at Chatham House, one of the world’s most respected policy institutes. This six-month paid internship offers aspiring professionals the opportunity to gain practical experience, build professional networks, and deepen their understanding of international affairs, sustainability, public policy, and global challenges.

Hosted by Chatham House, also known as the Royal Institute of International Affairs, this internship provides participants with direct exposure to the operations of a globally recognized think tank dedicated to building a sustainably secure, prosperous, and just world.

The programme is specifically designed to help early-career professionals gain hands-on experience while developing the skills, confidence, and networks required for successful careers in policy, research, international development, sustainability, and related fields.

About Chatham House

Chatham House is an independent policy institute based in London with a global reputation for excellence in research, analysis, and policy engagement.

For over a century, the organization has brought together policymakers, researchers, academics, business leaders, diplomats, and civil society representatives to discuss and address the world’s most pressing issues.

Its work focuses on:

• International affairs
• Global governance
• Climate and sustainability
• Security and defense
• Economic development
• Democracy and governance
• International cooperation
• Regional and geopolitical issues

The institution is widely known for the “Chatham House Rule,” a principle designed to encourage open and honest discussion during policy dialogues and international forums.

About the Molchanov Sustainability Internship

The Molchanov Sustainability Internship is designed to provide practical exposure to policy research, programme development, events management, communications, stakeholder engagement, and organizational operations within a leading international affairs institution.

Interns become part of a supportive learning environment where they work closely with experienced professionals, researchers, and policy experts while contributing to ongoing projects and initiatives.

The programme emphasizes professional development, mentorship, networking, and experiential learning.

Internship Teams Available

Successful candidates will be placed within one of the following teams:

Africa Programme

This team focuses on political, economic, governance, and development issues across the African continent.

Environment and Society Centre

Interns support research and policy discussions relating to sustainability, climate change, environmental governance, and social transformation.

Europe Programme / Russia and Eurasia Programme

This joint internship explores political, economic, and security developments across Europe, Russia, and Eurasia.

Events Team

Participants gain experience in planning, organizing, and delivering high-level policy events, conferences, workshops, and discussions.

Middle East and North Africa Programme

This programme examines developments affecting countries across the Middle East and North Africa region.

UK in the World Programme / US and North America Programme

Interns support research and engagement related to transatlantic relations, international policy, and global affairs.

What Interns Will Gain

The internship provides a rich learning experience through direct participation in Chatham House activities.

Participants will:

Work on Real Projects

Interns will contribute directly to:

• Research initiatives
• Events development
• Programme administration
• Stakeholder engagement
• Policy analysis
• Communications activities

Develop Research Skills

Responsibilities may include:

• Conducting background research
• Preparing briefing materials
• Supporting policy analysis
• Drafting summaries and reports
• Reviewing publications

Improve Communication Skills

Interns gain experience in:

• Writing policy-related content
• Drafting newsletters
• Producing social media content
• Editing publications
• Preparing event communications

Build Event Management Experience

Participants may support:

• High-level conferences
• Policy roundtables
• Workshops
• Expert discussions
• Public events

Expand Professional Networks

Interns will have opportunities to interact with:

• Global policymakers
• Researchers
• Diplomats
• International affairs experts
• Industry leaders
• Sustainability practitioners

Mentorship and Professional Development

Every intern receives dedicated mentorship and guidance throughout the programme.

Mentors support interns by:

• Providing career guidance
• Recommending learning opportunities
• Offering professional feedback
• Assisting with skills development
• Supporting personal growth goals

Interns also participate in a cohort-based experience, allowing them to learn and grow alongside fellow participants.

Benefits of the Internship

Selected participants will receive access to numerous benefits, including:

Professional Development

• Tailored learning and development programme
• Exposure to international policy work
• Practical project experience
• Mentorship from experts

Networking Opportunities

• Meetings with policymakers
• Interactions with international researchers
• Networking events
• Connections with sustainability professionals

Access to Resources

• Chatham House Library
• Online e-Library
• Research publications
• Expert events and discussions

Membership Benefits

Participants may receive complimentary Chatham House membership following a successful performance evaluation.

Who Should Apply?

The programme is ideal for individuals who:

• Are passionate about international affairs
• Have an interest in sustainability and public policy
• Want to work in research or think tanks
• Aspire to careers in diplomacy, development, government, or academia
• Enjoy learning and problem-solving
• Are proactive and motivated
• Have strong communication skills

Person Specification

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Interest in the work of Chatham House
• Excellent written communication skills
• Strong verbal communication abilities
• Curiosity and willingness to learn
• Ability to manage multiple tasks
• Teamwork and collaboration skills
• Professionalism and initiative
• Motivation for continuous personal development

Internship Location

The internship is based at Chatham House headquarters in:

St James’s Square, London, United Kingdom

The organization operates a hybrid work model, with interns generally expected to work from the office approximately two days per week.

International remote working is not supported.

Internship Duration

The internship is a:

• Six-month fixed-term contract
• Full-time position
• 35 hours per week

Start Date:

8 September 2026 (or shortly thereafter)

Salary

Interns receive compensation at the London Living Wage.

Current Rate:

£13.85 per hour

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be aged 18 years or older
• Be residing in the United Kingdom throughout the internship
• Hold a valid right to work in the UK
• Be available to start in September 2026
• Be able to commit to the full six-month programme

Important Application Guidance

Chatham House specifically advises applicants not to use artificial intelligence tools to generate application responses.

The selection team wants to hear authentic responses that reflect applicants’ own experiences, motivations, and perspectives.

Applications are screened anonymously, and candidates are encouraged to avoid including identifying personal information in written responses.

Application Deadline

Deadline: 10 June 2026 at 23:59 BST

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, meaning early submission is strongly encouraged.

Apply Here 

Why You Should Apply

For individuals seeking a career in international affairs, sustainability, policy research, diplomacy, development, or global governance, the Molchanov Sustainability Internship offers a rare opportunity to gain practical experience at one of the world’s leading think tanks.

The programme combines mentorship, professional development, networking, policy exposure, and meaningful project work, making it an outstanding stepping stone for future leaders committed to addressing global challenges.

For more information on this internship opportunity, visit here 

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