Position: Research Intern (Year-Round Internship Programme)
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Organisation: Southeast Asia Futures Initiative Centre (SEAFIC)
Internship Duration: Minimum 3 months (up to 6 monts), subject to university requirements and mutual agreement.
The Southeast Asia Futures Initiative Centre (SEAFIC) is inviting applications for its Research Internship Programme on a rolling basis. This internship offers undergraduate and postgraduate students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in applied policy research, futures and foresight studies, and regional economic analysis while contributing to research that informs policy and decision-making across Southeast Asia.
Interns will work alongside SEAFIC's research team on projects related to the think tank’s core research pillars: economic development, trade & investment, and international cooperation.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct desk research, literature reviews, and data collection on issues related to ASEAN economic development, trade, investment, and regional cooperation.
- Support research projects through data gathering, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and policy monitoring.
- Assist in conducting foresight analysis and monitoring regional and global developments relevant to Southeast Asia.
- Contribute to the preparation of policy briefs, background papers, research reports, presentations, and other knowledge products.
- Provide research support for policy dialogues, roundtables, conferences, and stakeholder engagements.
- Assist in preparing briefing materials and post-event summaries, reports, and key insights.
- Support the compilation, verification, and management of research data and references.
- Work closely with SEAFIC's researchers to ensure research quality, integrity, and adherence to international research standards.
- Undertake other research-related assignments and institutional initiatives as required.
Eligibility & Requirements
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Economics, Public Policy, International Relations, Development Studies, Political Science, International Development, or any related discipline.
- Strong interest in ASEAN affairs, public policy, economic development, international trade, or regional cooperation.
- Good research, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
- Ability to conduct literature reviews and analyse qualitative and quantitative information.
- Professional proficiency in both English and Bahasa Malaysia (written and spoken) is essential.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications; familiarity with statistical software, economic modelling, data visualisation, or AI-assisted research tools would be an advantage.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative research team.
- Prior research experience, publications, or involvement in policy-related projects would be an advantage but is not essential.
What You'll Gain
- Hands-on experience in a regional policy think tank focused on Southeast Asia.
- Exposure to policy research, futures and foresight methodologies, and evidence-based policy analysis.
- Opportunities to contribute to publications, policy dialogues, and regional research initiatives.
- Mentorship from experienced researchers and opportunities to engage with policymakers, academics, and industry experts.
- A collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment that supports professional development.
How to apply?
Please submit your CV, a cover letter (please state why you want to intern with us and what you expect to gain from the internship) and any recent written works or assignments to futurist@seafic.org
Note: Applications are accepted year-round, subject to project requirements and internship availability