National Security & Space Intern (Jan 2027 -- Strong Writing & Research Skills)

Location: Washington DC Department: Government Solutions

Join Our Talented Team at Protagonist

We fuse rigorous, methodologically sound analysis with our cutting-edge technology platform, Narrative Analytics®. This powerful combination enables us to quantitatively analyze open-source media, deliver strategic recommendations, and craft executive-level communication strategies for clients with missions that matter.

Why Us?

Our team is a vibrant mix of communication specialists, data scientists, and subject matter experts with extensive experience across U.S. Government agencies, non-profit organizations, and Fortune 500 companies. By joining Protagonist, you’ll immerse yourself in a collaborative environment where innovation thrives, and your contributions truly matter.

What We Do

Innovative Solutions: We co-develop cutting-edge solutions with our clients to address tough communication problems and capitalize on opportunities to make a tangible impact.

Data-Driven Insights: Our tools and methodologies provide actionable insights that help clients meet their communication objectives and stay ahead of global challenges.

Applied Expertise: We integrate our solutions within client organizations, leveraging our profound expertise to address critical issues and ensure sustainable success.

Be Part of Something Bigger

At Protagonist, you’ll work on compelling projects that make a real difference. We seek talented individuals eager to contribute to our mission and grow alongside us. If you’re passionate about communication, data analysis, and making an impact, we invite you to explore a career with Protagonist.

Explore Your Future with Us!

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us at Protagonist and be part of a team that's making a difference.

Washington, DC | Minimum 20 hours/week | In-Office with Remote Opportunities (Starting Jan 2027)

Job Description

Protagonist is seeking a highly motivated intern with an interest in space and national security to join our team in Washington, D.C. for the Spring 2027 semester. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to research and analysis supporting work with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). The intern will assist with researching and writing on topics related to space, emerging technologies, and strategic communications, gaining exposure to mission-relevant national security and policy issues.

This role supports senior team members in developing communications research and guidance related to mission-relevant initiatives for DoD stakeholders. Responsibilities include assisting with translating technical and analytical information into clear written materials, such as research summaries, draft reports, and briefing inputs. The position also involves researching and analyzing the media and information environment and applying established communications frameworks to inform client-focused insights. Through collaboration with experienced professionals, the role contributes to the development of communication plans and strategic messaging by supporting background research, content drafting, and material preparation, providing hands-on exposure to professional communications, media engagement, and executive communications practices.

Responsibilities

Conduct research and critically analyze information to identify trends, patterns, and relationships.

Apply relevant communication theories, psychological frameworks, and best practices to address client problems.

Synthesize open-source research and write independently on space related topics.

Analyze U.S. Government speeches, websites, and social media communications and present findings to senior team members.

Draft, review, and edit reports, documents, and briefings.

Assist in developing and delivering presentations.

Requirements

Authorized to work in the US

Currently enrolled in a BA degree seeking program (current MA or MS students preferred)

Must be able to work on U.S. Government contracts that may be restricted to U.S. citizens; existing security clearance (SECRET or higher) a plus

Strong research and writing skills are required, including ability to synthesize open-source research and independently write on space-related topics

Course work in international relations and/or a focus in communications and related fields is a plus.

Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills; able to communicate complex problems with clarity

Able to work independently as well as part of a cross-functional team

Ability to meet tight deadlines, under pressure, with outstanding attention to detail

Love working in a fast-paced, startup environment full of complexity, ambiguity and change

Available to work a minimum of 20 hours/week throughout the semester

This is not a fully remote position; interns must be able to work in our Washington D.C. office 1-2 days per week

Additional Information

If you’re passionate about technology and making an impact, apply today! Protagonist is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and innovative environment where everyone’s voice can make a difference.

Protagonist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The internship pays $20.00 / hour or the applicable local minimum wage rate, whichever is higher.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.