The Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS), New Delhi has opened applications for its Offline Internship Programme 2026, offering an exceptional opportunity for emerging researchers interested in China and the wider East Asian region. Designed to nurture the next generation of scholars, the programme combines rigorous academic mentorship with practical experience in research, publications, policy dialogue, event management, and institutional operations.
With four internship vacancies available, successful applicants will receive a monthly stipend of INR 10,000, work alongside leading China specialists, and contribute to high-quality research within one of India’s foremost centres for China and East Asian studies. The application deadline is 27 September 2026, while the internship is scheduled to begin from 1 November 2026.
About the ICS Internship Programme
The Institute of Chinese Studies has developed its internship programme to support young scholars pursuing research in the social sciences, humanities, international relations, political science, history, economics, and related disciplines connected to China and East Asia.
Operating throughout the year, the programme typically spans one month of probation followed by a three-month internship, with the possibility of extension through mutual agreement. Interns work in a highly collaborative academic environment under the supervision of experienced faculty members, fellows, and associates who provide personalised research guidance.
Beyond individual research projects, interns gain valuable exposure to scholarly publishing, academic seminars, policy discussions, and the organisational functioning of a leading research institute.
What Interns Will Experience
The internship is structured to provide both academic and professional development. Each intern is assigned an ICS mentor who guides the research process from proposal development to the production of a publishable paper or research report.
Participants are expected to maintain regular engagement with faculty members while contributing to the institute’s broader academic activities. The programme encourages independent thinking, critical analysis, and high-quality scholarly writing that may eventually be considered for publication in ICS research series or, in exceptional cases, the prestigious China Report: A Journal of East Asian Studies.
This makes the internship particularly valuable for students planning careers in academia, policy research, international affairs, or think tanks.
Research and Organisational Responsibilities
Throughout the internship, scholars undertake a balanced combination of research and institutional responsibilities. Key duties include:
- Developing and advancing an independent research project under faculty supervision
- Submitting fortnightly progress reports to mentors
- Assisting researchers with academic and administrative tasks
- Supporting the planning and coordination of seminars, conferences, and public events
- Drafting newsletters, event communications, and institutional correspondence
- Contributing to social media and digital outreach initiatives
Interns are expected to observe office hours from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with prior approval required for any absence.
Eligibility Criteria
The Institute welcomes applications from motivated candidates with a demonstrated interest in China and East Asia. Applicants should possess strong analytical and communication skills alongside a commitment to academic research.
Eligible candidates include:
- Graduates who have completed a Master’s degree
- Final-year Bachelor’s students with strong academic potential
- Students specialising in social sciences, humanities, international relations, or related fields
- Final-year language students focusing on East Asian languages
Additional qualifications that strengthen an application include proficiency in Chinese or another East Asian language, experience with Canva, Microsoft Office, Zoom, social media management, website administration, research writing, and editing.
Stipend, Mentorship and Career Benefits
Selected interns receive a stipend of INR 10,000 per month throughout the offline internship. More importantly, participants benefit from intensive mentorship by distinguished ICS scholars and gain first-hand experience within India’s leading China studies research community.
Successful completion of the programme is recognised through an official ICS testimonial, enhancing applicants’ academic and professional profiles. Outstanding research produced during the internship may also be recommended for publication across the institute’s research platforms.
For aspiring researchers, this combination of funding, mentorship, publication opportunities, and institutional experience provides a strong foundation for future postgraduate study and research careers.
Application Requirements
Candidates must submit a complete application package containing the following documents:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Writing sample of up to 2,000 words (where available)
- One-page 500-word research statement or proposal
- Two letters of recommendation, including at least one from a faculty member
Applicants are encouraged to explore the Institute of Chinese Studies’ publications, research programmes, and academic activities before applying in order to align their research interests with the institute’s mission.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted by email with a short cover letter included in the body of the email. The cover letter should briefly introduce the applicant’s research interests, relevant academic experience, skills, and availability for the internship period.
The email subject must read:
Application for Internship
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in an online interview as part of the final selection process.
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Close | 27 September 2026 |
| Shortlisting & Interviews | After the deadline |
| Internship Commences | 1 November 2026 |
| Internship Format | Offline, New Delhi |
The ICS Offline Internship Programme represents an outstanding opportunity for emerging scholars seeking to deepen their understanding of China and East Asia while building practical research, publication, and policy engagement experience. Candidates with strong academic potential and a genuine interest in regional studies are encouraged to apply before the September deadline.
