The Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA), a leading independent think-tank based in Dublin, Ireland, is opening a competition for the position of Research Intern to support the IIEA’s research and events during the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU. This internship would be for a duration of up to 6 months, depending on candidate availability and start date, and would conclude on 31 December 2026. This internship would be ideal for recent graduates seeking experience in international affairs.   

Research Interns at the IIEA work as part of the IIEA research team, reporting directly to the Director of Research, and may be asked to assist on any or all of the following tasks: providing research support for briefings, blogs and other written materials; assisting with event planning and organisation; helping to coordinate a working group comprising leading experts from across the IIEA’s range of research areas; and facilitating the IIEA’s relations with key Irish and EU stakeholders, including government departments, EU institutions, NGOs, and universities. 

The successful candidate(s) will have a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in EU and international policy research; engage with leaders in policy, politics and business; assist in the creation and execution of programmes of research; assist with events featuring some of the highest profile speakers in Ireland and internationally; and build a network of contacts in Irish and European policy circles. 

The deadline for applications is Friday 26 June 2026.  

Responsibilities:

• The main responsibilities of this position include:  

• Tracking and analysing significant developments in specific EU policy areas, EU institutions, and EU politics 

• Providing research assistance for analytical papers, blogs, and explainers on themes related to EU and international affairs 

• Liaising, when required, with IIEA members, speakers, and guests 

• Providing assistance in the organising of programmes of keynote addresses, seminars, roundtable discussions, and workshops with high-level policymakers and thought leaders as part of the IIEA's events programme 

 Requirements:  

The ideal candidate would have  

• First-class or high second-class honours in a field such as International Relations, Public Policy, European Studies, Economics, Law, Political Economy, Political Science, etc. (Candidates who have not yet received their final results may be asked to provide academic references.) 

• Good knowledge of Irish politics and EU institutions 

• Excellent research, writing, editing, and proofing skills  

• Ability to meet deadlines 

• Attention to detail, accuracy, and efficiency  

• Ability to multitask and strong organisational skills  

• Excellent interpersonal and oral and written communication skills 

Application details:  

• To apply please send a CV and cover letter with the subject line “Research Intern – Application” to [email protected] 

• Due to the expected volume of applications, we will only be able to respond to applicants who are selected for interview 

• Canvassing will result in disqualification 

• Please note that this role is Dublin-based and it is expected that the successful candidate would primarily work from the IIEA’s offices at 8 North Great George’s Street, Dublin 1.  

The salary for this internship is €32,000 per annum pro rata.