Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP)
The Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) is an international NGO based in Vienna, affiliated with the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. Operating at the heart of the multilateral disarmament and non-proliferation ecosystem, the VCDNP works in close proximity to the IAEA, CTBTO, and other international organisations headquartered in Vienna, facilitating dialogue among governments, international organisations, and civil society on nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful applications of nuclear technology. This Fall 2026 internship runs for up to six months, starting ideally in October 2026, and is conducted fully in person in Vienna. The intern will develop and implement an independent research project under VCDNP researcher supervision, contribute to ongoing research and programmatic activities including events and conferences, interact with experts from the IAEA, CTBTO, and government delegations, and support communications and outreach. The VCDNP's work is directly relevant to the space governance community: nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament frameworks — including the NPT, the CTBT, and emerging discussions on space-based nuclear power and propulsion — sit at the intersection of arms control and outer space governance. The prevention of an arms race in outer space (PAROS) and the militarisation of space are increasingly discussed alongside traditional disarmament agendas. For early-career professionals in arms control, space security, or international security law, this internship offers an outstanding entry point into the Vienna multilateral environment. Applications from women and candidates from developing countries are strongly encouraged.
Currently pursuing or recently graduated from a relevant Master's degree in nuclear engineering, nuclear physics, international relations, law, political science, or a related field Demonstrated interest in nuclear non-proliferation, disarmament, or peaceful nuclear technology applications Strong writing skills and excellent English proficiency Experience creating content and managing corporate social media accounts Proficiency with graphic design tools (Canva, Photoshop) and WordPress/SEO an asset Valid authorisation to work in Austria or ability to obtain the required visa Application materials: CV, official transcript, one letter of recommendation, motivational statement, and writing sample in English (max 5 pages)