Job Description

Job Purpose

The Policy Fellow at ECFR will lead research and policy development on key political, socio-economic, and security issues affecting the transatlantic relationship, with a focus on fostering innovative policy solutions. The Policy Fellow will be responsible for synthesizing data and analysis to develop actionable recommendations on critical areas, including EU and member state relations with the United States across political, economic, and regional security dynamics. As an expert in their field, the Policy Fellow will contribute to ECFR’s advocacy efforts by building strategic networks, engaging with policymakers, and promoting evidence-based policy change. Collaborating closely with ECFR’s other programs, the Policy Fellow will ensure that research and policy recommendations are tailored to the specific geopolitical context of the UK, EU, its member states, and their external challenges, driving impactful policy shifts across Europe and beyond.

Main Responsibilities

• Undertake   in-depth research on key  transatlantic  topics such as  the politics of US foreign policy,  geoeconomics ,  defense industrial strateg y,  and technology . Synthesize findings to develop actionable insights and policy recommendations.
• Write comprehensive reports, policy briefs, and concise commentaries, including blog posts and media pieces, to communicate research findings, policy recommendations, and strategic insights effectively.
• M anage and expand ECFR’s policy and advocacy network by  establishing strong relationships with external contacts, including donors, ECFR Council members, and key stakeholders in relevant fields.
• Represent ECFR externally at conferences, media appearances, and briefings, acting as a key spokesperson for the  US  Programme and its initiatives. Engage in high-level discussions and policy debates to raise ECFR's profile and influence.
• Contribute to the formulation of the  US  Programme’s strategic direction and work plan.  Assist in the effective implementation of these strategies and ensure alignment with ECFR’s broader  objectives .
• Actively shape and  participate in the  US  Programme’s social media strategy and outreach, enhancing the visibility of ECFR’s work and engaging key audiences in relevant fields.
• Collaborate with the development team, senior fellows, and US Programme Director to identify potential financial support opportunities. Assist in the creation of materials for prospective donors and support fundraising efforts to secure funding for US Programme initiatives. 

Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed to support overall ECFR organizational priorities.

Person Specification

• Work Authorization
  • All candidates must have prior authorization to work in the United States. ECFR cannot sponsor visas.
• Education
  • Master's in International Relations, Economics, Law, Geoeconomics, or equivalent, or relevant work experience. PhD is a plus.
•   Experience
  • Policy Development & Innovation :   A track record of developing innovative foreign policy proposals and creative approaches to addressing  European policies towards specific regions or issues (e.g.,  technology policy,  defense policy , geoeconomics).
  • Network Building : Experience  maintaining and developing substantial networks of contacts with policymakers, politicians, experts, media, activists, and other relevant stakeholders.
  • External Representation : Media experience, with the ability to  represent the organization externally through conferences, briefings, and public speaking engagements.
  • Project & Program Management : Experience in coordinating and managing projects, particularly in fast-paced international environments, with the ability to work across multiple teams and stakeholders.

Skills and Abilities

• Research & Analytical Skills : Proven ability to conduct high-level research, lead research projects, and prepare detailed reports, policy briefs, and briefing papers that provide clear recommendations on complex issues. 
• Communication Skills : Exceptional written and oral communication skills in English, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively. High  proficiency in another European language ( particularly  German or French) is an advantage.
• Multitasking & Flexibility : Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, adapt to changeable conditions, and meet demanding deadlines. Must  demonstrate flexibility in managing evolving priorities and working hours.
• IT Proficiency : High  proficiency in MS Office and IT tools, including experience with databases and collaborative platforms. Experience in budgeting and financial oversight is an advantage.
• Organizational Skills : Excellent organizational abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to handle complex tasks with precision.
• Teamwork & Independence : Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively within a multinational team. Strong interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to engage and maintain relationships at various levels of hierarchy. 

Special Conditions 

• Customer Focus & High Ownership : High degree of ownership over tasks and a customer-focused mindset.
• Willingness to Travel : Open to occasional travel and irregular working hours as required to support the US   Programme’s initiatives and external engagements.

What we offer

• Convenient office location  at  our ECFR office in Washington D.C.
• Stimulating and open work culture at an innovative and renowned pan-European think tank with partly hybrid work opportunities that allow flexibility while  maintaining productivity and collaboration.
• Opportunity to collaborate with highly motivated and committed colleagues from diverse backgrounds across Europe, within an organization that holds a distinguished position and wide recognition within the think tank world.

To Apply and Next steps

If this is of interest, we look forward to receiving your application!    

Please use the apply button to submit your cover letter and CV (max. 2 pg. and pdf format). 

Candidates must be eligible to work in the USA.

We aim to inform you promptly about the status of your application. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly with the details about next steps in the process. 

We care about your data privacy. If you are interested to know more about how we manage your personal data, you can find more information in this link: 

ECFR is an Equal Opportunity Employer and we do not discriminate against applicants due to race, ethnicity, gender, veteran status, or on the basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.    

STRICTLY NO AGENCIES PLEASE

About us

The European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) is an award-winning international think-tank that aims to conduct cutting-edge independent research on European foreign and security policy and to provide a safe meeting space for decision-makers, activists and influencers to share ideas. We build coalitions for change at the European level and promote informed debate about Europe’s role in the world. 

 

In 2007, ECFR’s founders set about creating a pan-European institution that could combine establishment credibility with intellectual insurgency. Today, ECFR remains uniquely placed to continue providing a pan-European perspective on some of the biggest strategic challenges and choices Europeans need to confront, with a network of offices in seven European capitals, over 90 staff from more than 25 different countries and a team of associated researchers in the EU 27 member states. For more information check our website: ecfr.eu  

Job Tags

Full time, Work experience placement, Casual work, Local area, Visa sponsorship, Shift work,

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