MEPEI Internship Program (remote/ on-site)

  1. Build Bridges Between Romania, the EU, other regions of the world and the Middle East

At the Middle East Political and Economic Institute (MEPEI), we believe in empowering the next generation of researchers, analysts, and foreign policy experts. Aligned with our core mission to foster political, economic, and cultural dialogue between different regions of the world and Middle Eastern partners, our Internship Program provides students and young professionals with first-hand experience in geopolitical research, policy assessment, and international networking.

As a MEPEI intern, you will contribute directly to counteracting misconceptions and fake news, raising regional awareness among European and international audiences, and shaping high-level analysis on the MENA region.

  1. What You Will Do: Key Responsibilities

Interns work closely with senior analysts, fellows, and MEPEI leadership across a range of core research and operational tasks:

  • Policy Research & Analytical Writing: Conduct in-depth research and draft original analytical commentary, news reviews, policy briefs, or articles for publication in the MEPEI Journal or the In Focus section of our website (covering themes such as energy security, GCC affairs, the Levant, post-conflict reconstruction, and EU/ Asia -Middle East relations, etc.).
  • Media & Misinformation Monitoring: Support research efforts aimed at preventing the hazardous alteration of decision-making processes caused by biased media coverage, historical prejudices, and fake news practices regarding the Arab and Persian regions.
  • Events & Strategic Roundtables: Assist in the organization and execution of MEPEI events, expert panels, web discussions, and international conferences, bringing together decision-makers from public and private sectors.
  • Editorial & Translation Support: Help summarize, translate, and edit analytical reports, assessments, and communication materials in English, or Romanian, or even Arabic and Persian, if necessary.
  1. Candidate Profile & Eligibility

We are looking for motivated candidates with a proven interest in Middle Eastern affairs and international relations.

Basic Requirements:

  • Currently enrolled in or a graduate of a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. program in International Relations, Political Science, Middle Eastern Studies, Global Economics, European Studies, or a related field.
  • Excellent command of written and spoken English (the primary language of MEPEI’s analytical publications).
  • Strong analytical thinking, research capabilities, and writing skills.
  • Ability to work independently, respect editorial deadlines, and collaborate in multicultural environments.

Desirable Assets:

  • Working knowledge of other Middle Eastern languages.
  • Prior experience in draft-editing, policy analysis, media monitoring, or event coordination.
  1. Program Format & Benefits
  • Duration: 3 to 6 months (Flexible seasonal cycles: Spring, Summer, and Fall/Winter intakes).
  • Working Format: Remote / Hybrid / On-site at MEPEI's offices in Bucharest, Romania.
  • Mentorship: Direct coaching from MEPEI leadership and associate fellows.
  • Publication Opportunities: High-quality research articles written by interns may be published on the official MEPEI platform and featured in our newsletters.
  • Certificate & Professional Endorsement: Upon successful completion, interns receive a formal Certificate of Accomplishment and a personalized Recommendation Letter for future academic or professional pursuits.
  • Non-paid Internship.
  1. How to Apply

To apply for the MEPEI Internship Program, please submit the following documents to office@mepei.com with the subject line "Application: Internship Program – [Your Name]":

  1. Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing your educational background and work/extracurricular experience.
  2. Motivation Letter (max. 500 words) explaining your interest in MEPEI's mission and your specific thematic or geographical area of focus within Middle Eastern affairs.
  3. Writing Sample (1–3 pages) on a relevant geopolitical, security, or economic topic concerning the Middle East relations.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview.