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.
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.
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