Council on Foreign Relations Research Associate, Women and Foreign Policy Position in Washington, DC

The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is hiring a full-time research associate for its Women and Foreign Policy programme in Washington, DC. This role supports the Senior Fellow for Women and Foreign Policy through research, editing, event coordination, administrative support, and budget tracking. 

This opportunity suits candidates with a bachelor’s degree, strong writing and research skills, and at least one related administrative or internship experience. In addition, the role offers an annual salary of USD $55,000 – $58,000 per year, depending on experience, alongside staff benefits.

Application Deadline:

• Rolling applications (apply as soon as possible)

Tell Me About the Position:

The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is hiring a Research Associate to support the Women and Foreign Policy Program within the David Rockefeller Studies Program. This programme analyses how elevating the status of women and girls advances U.S. foreign policy objectives, including peace, prosperity, and security. The associate will work closely with the Senior Fellow for Women and Foreign Policy, contributing to research, publications, events, and outreach.

Responsibilities:

• Research Support – literature reviews, data tracking, and background research for articles, book chapters, and publications.
• Administrative Support – correspondence, scheduling, calendar management, and responding to media requests.
• Event Coordination – invitations, logistics, background papers, and speaker arrangements.
• Editing & Proofreading – support for articles, book chapters, and other materials.
• Budget & Grants – tracking statements, drafting reports, and preparing reimbursements.
• Social Media Outreach – blog posts, website updates, and Twitter engagement.
• Cross-Departmental Support – assisting other fellows when needed.

Type:

• Full-Time Research Associate | Washington, DC | CFR

Who can apply?

Applicants must:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree in international relations, political science, or related social sciences.
• Have at least one year of related administrative or internship experience.
• Demonstrate interest in women’s issues, political participation, leadership, development, or international economics.
• Possess strong skills in research, writing, editing, organisation, and multitasking.
• Be proficient in MS Word, Excel, and research databases (ProQuest preferred).
• Have excellent social media communication skills.

Compensation:

• Annual salary: $55,000 – $58,000 (depending on experience).
• Benefits include health insurance, a wellness programme, an on-site fitness centre, and generous leave policies.

Location & Work Policy:

• Based in the Washington, DC office.
• On-site at least three anchor days per week (Tue–Thu).
• From September 14, 2026, employees will be on-site four days per week.

Required Documents:

• Résumé.
• Cover letter stating interest in the position.

How to Apply:

1. Prepare résumé and cover letter.
2. Submit via CFR’s online application portal.
3. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.

👉 Visit the Application Webpage for Details