Research Associate, Africa Studies

CFR’s David Rockefeller Studies Program is one of the country’s largest foreign policy think tanks with a widely respected and influential research staff. The Studies Program aims to advance the discussion of American foreign policy and international affairs through its writing, publications, public outreach, and discussions.

The Research Associate will work under the direction of the Douglas Dillon Senior Fellow for Africa Studies, focusing on U.S. foreign policy with respect to political and security issues, civil society, democracy, corruption, and religion in Sub-Saharan Africa.

This position is based in CFR’s Washington, DC office on a hybrid basis. CFR currently defines hybrid status as working at least three days a week onsite, with Tuesdays and Thursdays considered institutional anchor days where all staff are required to be onsite.

• Researching specific areas as requested by the fellow for articles, book chapters, long term research goals, and other publications. Tracking news and data sources.
• Handling writing assignments, summarizing research findings, and business writing
• Assisting with the proofreading and editing of articles, book chapters, and other written material
• Coordinating events, including preparing and sending invitations, making travel arrangements, corresponding with speakers and presiders, helping to prepare background papers and materials for distribution, and providing other logistical support
• Providing administrative support to the fellow, including handling correspondence, scheduling, and responding to requests for information
• Assisting in managing finances, including preparing budgets and tracking monthly statements, monitoring grant information and writing reports and requests, creating and updating Excel spreadsheets, and preparing vouchers for reimbursement
• Assisting fellow with social media outreach, including publishing a blog, website, video, and/or using social media applications such as Twitter, etc., as needed
• Providing support across departmental lines and for other fellows, upon request

• Bachelor’s degree with academic credentials in an aspect of African studies and/or in a related field
• 1+ year(s) related administrative and/or internship experience
• Outstanding research and writing skills
• Strong organizational, representational, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Experience with blogging and social media preferred

Pay Range

$51,000 to $54,000 per year

Pay commensurate with experience and education

Founded in 1921, the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is a leading nonprofit membership organization, research center, and publisher, with headquarters in New York, an office in Washington, DC, and programs nationwide. It is dedicated to increasing America's understanding of the world and contributing ideas to U.S. foreign policy. CFR's 5,000+ members are leaders in international affairs and foreign policy. CFR also publishes Foreign Affairs, the preeminent magazine on global issues, and provides up-to-date information about the world and U.S. foreign policy on its award-winning website, CFR.org.

The Council on Foreign Relations offers a benefits package that is among the best offered by nonprofit institutions today, including an award-winning health and wellness program, an on-site fitness center, and generous leave policies and health insurance programs.

The Council on Foreign Relations is an equal opportunity employer and actively seeks candidates from a diverse background.