September 22, 2026
The Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS) Vermont Office offers undergraduate students an on-campus window into Middlebury College’s global reach, connecting academics to the international policy community. This summer, CNS was thrilled to welcome rising Middlebury senior Ella Gincherman ’27 as its first summer intern in Vermont, where she worked with CNS VT Director Dr. Stephen Herzog. The internship was launched in partnership with Middlebury’s Center for Careers and Internships (CCI), whose MiddWorks for Vermont Program generously funded Ella’s stipend.
CNS VT intern Ella Gincherman ’27 presents at Middlebury’s Summer Research Symposium. Pictured alongside Dr. Stephen Herzog, Director of CNS Vermont.
Below, Ella describes her time working with CNS.
“My experience as the first Vermont Office Summer Intern for CNS was extremely rewarding and helpful for my professional development. As an undergraduate student with interests in nuclear policy and nonproliferation studies, the Center has allowed me to gain relevant knowledge and experience in the field, as well as form strong connections with experts. Through this internship, in addition to supporting my supervisor Dr. Stephen Herzog on research for his forthcoming book chapter on the DPRK’s history with the NPT, I was able to conduct my own independent research. My project examined the causal mechanisms behind cross-national variation in public opinion on nuclear deterrence among European NATO member states. Having the opportunity to conduct my own independent research has allowed me to tremendously broaden my knowledge and skill set, and advance my career goals. I recommend students of all backgrounds and fields of study to consider working with CNS. As the global nuclear order becomes more and more precarious, now more than ever young professionals should be getting involved in efforts to build up global security and contribute to nuclear risk reduction.”
CNS is the largest nongovernmental organization in the United States dedicated exclusively to research and training aimed at addressing the spread of weapons of mass destruction. Through curricular and experiential learning opportunities on and off campus, students can work alongside leading experts and pursue research addressing urgent global security challenges. CNS offers fall, winter term, spring, and summer employment opportunities for Middlebury undergraduates in its Vermont Office, as well as summer undergraduate fellowships in its Monterey, CA office.
