Internship (Pflichtpraktikum)

About ISD

ISD is a fiercely independent ‘think and do tank’ dedicated to safeguarding individual rights, democratic process, national security and public safety against the rising tide of authoritarianism and extremism globally.

For 20 years, ISD has been at the forefront of analysing, exposing and combatting all forms of terrorism, extremism, foreign interference, digital manipulation and authoritarianism, helping equip institutions, individuals, communities and the private sector with the tools, policies and skills to achieve impact at scale. We have innovated and scaled sector leading policy and operational programs–on and offline–to push back the forces threatening democratic processes and cohesion around the world today.

We partner with governments, cities, businesses and communities to turn cutting-edge data and insight into action; trialing and delivering evidence-based solutions across society; and empowering those that can impact positive change at scale. Our research also shapes and informs our education and civic action programmes as well as the training and policy support we provide to central and local governments, frontline practitioners, companies and international organisations.

Why work for ISD? 

ISD is not your ordinary think tank. We turn research into action that changes the world. Our insights don't gather dust on shelves - they power the fight to protect democracy and human rights on the front lines. We're committed to delivering real change, from the grassroots to the highest levels of global institutions. And we're looking for passionate individuals who share our commitment to making a difference. Join us and be part of an organisation that's making an impact. 

 
ISD's Guiding Principles of  integrity, collaboration, agility and courage  define who we are as a team and an organisation. These principles reflect our culture and guide the way we work and the choices we make. 

Working Hours and Compensation

Interns can work between 35 and 40 hours per week, and we are open to flexible working arrangements. 

We offer an expense allowance of €900 per month and are looking for interns to start immediately. 

Location

Germany. You can work from our Berlin office, from home, or in a hybrid arrangement that suits you. Please note that you must attend essential team meetings in the office.

Contract type 

Internship Contract (Pflichtpraktkum).

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 

ISD is committed to promoting diversity throughout its workforce and aims for its team to be truly representative of all sections of society. We make a concerted effort to ensure our workplace, employment policies and organisational culture creates an inclusive, positive and progressive environment in which all members of our team are treated with dignity and respect. For further information about this policy or our recruitment practices, please email vacancies@isdglobal.org. 

 
We strongly encourage applications from people of colour, the LGBTQ+ community, people with disabilities, neurodivergent people, carers, and people from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. 

Role Purporse

During your internship at ISD, you will work across ISD’s three core workstreams - the “Three A’s”: 

1) Analysis – Research and Analysis: 

Collecting data and using online analysis tools on relevant topics and platforms to support ISD’s research. Analyses are published in various formats. 

2) Advisory – Policy Work: 

Based on our analyses, we develop recommendations for governments, agencies, international organisations, and civil society and share them with relevant stakeholders. 

3) Action – Education and Training: 

Through diverse formats, we teach how to address digital challenges, especially hate speech, disinformation, and conspiracy narratives. In addition to training, we create guides and resources for participants and multipliers. 

Possible Tasks During the Internship

• Administrative support in coordinating projects and teams, including organizing meetings and taking minutes.

• Researching background information on current developments and legislation in our fields, especially platform regulation at national and EU levels.

• Contributing to analyses and research in various projects and teams.

• Editorial work.

• Developing training materials and supporting event formats.

• Preparing meetings and events.

• Organisational and administrative tasks to support leadership.

• And more.

General Requirements for the Internship

• You must be enrolled at a university during the internship. It should count as a mandatory internship (Pflichtpraktikum)

• You should be available for at least three months, preferably six months

• ISD is a global organisation, so you should be able to speak and write in both German and English

How to Apply

Please submit your application in English or German by 14.12.2025, including your CV and a one-page cover letter outlining your experience and motivation. Indicate the period you are available for the internship. ISD reserves the right to conduct interviews and hire candidates before the deadline.

If you have any further questions about this vacancy or want to speak to a member of our recruitment team, please contact vacancies@isdglobal.org.