Digital Modernization & Data Volunteer

Applicants will be considered based on their knowledge, skills or abilities related to project needs. Specifically, applicants should have: Data Analysis: Proficiency in data manipulation and visualization desired (e.g., Python/Pandas, R, Tableau, or Power BI). Emerging Tech Knowledge: Demonstrated interest or coursework in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Large Language Models (LLMs), or machine learning applications for social science. OSINT Literacy: Familiarity with open-source investigative techniques and handling large, unstructured datasets. Briefing Skills: Ability to translate complex technical findings into concise verbal and written briefings for non-technical policymakers. Self-Starter Mentality: Experience working in remote or virtual environments with minimal supervision; ability to manage long-term projects and meet milestones independently. Regional Interest: A strong interest in Eastern European affairs, countering adversarial propaganda, and regional security is desirable. Make an impact while you learn. The Semester of Service Program offers students a volunteer project-based opportunity to support Federal missions, gaining hands-on experience & valuable career-ready skills. Students must be enrolled at least half-time in an accredited trade school, technical or vocational institute, junior college, college, university, or other accredited educational institution, & participation must be with the permission of the institution at which the student is enrolled.

• This vacancy announcement will be open from May 15, 2026 to May 21, 2026 or when 25 applications have been received. The vacancy will close on whichever day the first of these conditions are met. If the application limit is reached on the same day the announcement opened, the open and close date will be the same. Candidates are encouraged to read the entire announcement before submitting their application packages. Project Description: The Belarus Affairs Unit (BAU) seeks a Semester of Service (SoS) Student Volunteer Program volunteer to assist in the development of data-driven frameworks and AI-integrated products to support public messaging and policy analysis. The volunteer will focus on leveraging AI and emerging technologies to enhance the BAU's ability to process large volumes of open-source data on Belarus public messaging and policy developments. Key responsibilities will include: Modernization Research: Researching and prototyping AI-driven tools for data visualization and automated sentiment analysis of Belarusian public statements and media reports. Data Aggregation and Analysis: Building structured datasets from disparate public information sources to identify trends in entity behavior and increase domain awareness. Workflow Optimization: Developing “best practice” guides for integrating data-driven insights into messaging development. Strategic Mapping: Assisting in the mapping of complex networks using data science techniques to strengthen reporting and analysis.