Council on Foreign Relations

Research Associate, Technology and National Security

Posted 30+ days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from Council on Foreign Relations

  • Job overview

    The Research Associate, Technology and National Security at CFR supports a senior fellow by conducting research and analysis on technology and national security topics to advance American foreign policy understanding.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The role involves monitoring developments in technology and national security, providing administrative support, coordinating events, completing writing assignments, managing program finances, assisting with social media outreach, and supporting other fellows as needed.

  • Compensation and benefits

    The position offers an annual salary range of $55,000 to $58,000 depending on experience, along with a competitive benefits package.

  • Experience and skills

    Candidates should have a degree in international relations or related field, 1+ years of relevant internship or administrative experience, familiarity with technology and national security, strong research and writing skills, organizational abilities, and proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and Outlook; budget management or website maintenance experience is preferred.

  • Work environment and culture

    CFR values diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a representative foreign policy community with a hybrid work environment requiring onsite presence at least three days a week.

  • Company information

    Founded in 1921, CFR is a leading nonprofit organization focused on U.S. foreign policy and international affairs, publishing Foreign Affairs magazine and operating major research programs with a nationwide presence.

  • Team overview

    The associate will join CFR's David Rockefeller Studies Program, supporting a senior fellow in technology and national security within a large, influential research staff.

  • Job location and travel

    The position is based in CFR's Washington, D.C. office with a hybrid work schedule requiring at least three days onsite, including Tuesdays and Thursdays as anchor days.

  • Application process

    Applicants must submit a résumé and cover letter stating their interest in the position.

  • Unique job features

    The role offers unique opportunities to engage with high-level foreign policy research and public outreach in a prestigious think tank environment.

Company overview

The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is a nonpartisan think tank and membership organization dedicated to improving the understanding of foreign policy and international affairs. Founded in 1921, CFR conducts research, publishes influential reports, and hosts events featuring global leaders and experts. It generates revenue through membership fees, donations, and the sale of publications. The organization is known for its flagship publication, Foreign Affairs, and its role in shaping U.S. foreign policy discourse.

How to land this job

  • Tailor your resume to highlight your research skills and familiarity with technology and national security, emphasizing your ability to monitor developments and produce well-written summaries and reports.

  • Showcase your administrative and organizational abilities, particularly experience coordinating events, managing budgets, and handling correspondence, as these are key responsibilities for the role.

  • Apply through multiple platforms including the Council on Foreign Relations' official website and LinkedIn to maximize your chances of being noticed.

  • Connect with current employees in the David Rockefeller Studies Program or technology and national security teams on LinkedIn; start conversations by referencing a recent CFR publication or event, or by expressing genuine curiosity about their work in foreign policy and technology.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by including keywords from the job description such as 'technology and national security,' 'research,' 'event coordination,' 'budget management,' and 'social media outreach' to ensure it passes initial screenings.

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