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.

As part of the Studies Program, the research associate will support the work of the senior fellow for energy and climate and the CFR Initiative on Climate and Energy.

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.

• Conducting research for articles, book chapters, and other publications on topics related to clean energy technology innovation, international climate cooperation, investment and finance for the energy transition, trade and industrial policy related to climate and clean energy, the national security impacts of climate change, and other topics as requested by the senior fellow
• Providing logistical and administrative support to the senior fellow, including scheduling and calendar management, handling phone calls and media requests, making travel arrangements, and drafting correspondence
• Working closely with the senior fellow and other staff supporting the upcoming CFR Initiative on Climate and Energy on research and convening activities, as well as assisting with program management and budget for the initiative
• Coordinating events, including preparing invitations, making travel arrangements, corresponding with speakers and presiders, helping to prepare background papers and materials for distribution, and providing other logistical support.
• Assisting with the drafting, proofreading, and editing of grant proposals
• Assisting with budgeting, including tracking monthly statements, monitoring grant information, writing reports and requests, creating and updating Excel spreadsheets, and preparing vouchers for reimbursement
• Assisting the senior fellow with social media outreach, including publishing a blog, website, video, and/or using social media applications such as Twitter, Facebook, etc., as needed
• Providing support across departmental lines and for other fellows, upon request

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in international relations, engineering, or clean energy or climate field, with high academic achievement; strong knowledge of climate change and/or energy preferred
• Excellent research, writing, and editing skills
• Strong organizational and planning skills and high attention to detail
• Experience with project management preferred
• Excellent written communication, verbal communication, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and internet research

Pay Range

$55,000 to $58,000 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, and an on-site fitness center.

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