Associate Director of Research to the President
About The Position
As the primary researcher for the President of CFR, the Associate Director of Research to the President is responsible for holding the pen for in-depth analyses on a wide range of foreign policy topics, crafting compelling written materials, and delivering timely briefings that inform the President's thought leadership and public engagements. This position also extends beyond research to include strategic support as necessary to coordinate across departments and regularly represent the Executive Office with both poise and professionalism. A successful researcher will possess not only strong analytical and writing skills but also the adaptability, discretion, motivation, and interpersonal finesse necessary to thrive in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment, where attention to detail and working long hours is expected. This full-time position is based in CFR’s Washington, DC office at least three days per week. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are considered institutional anchor days where all staff are required to be onsite. Effective Monday, September 14, 2026, CFR employees will be based on-site at least four days per week. CFR’s remote working schedule is subject to change.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree required
- At least 2 years related experience as a foreign policy researcher and/or speechwriter
- Demonstrable expertise in written communication, strong verbal communication skills, and skills in proofreading and copyediting.
- Demonstrated experience and success with ghostwriting and capturing the authentic voice of executive leadership in written communications, speeches, and remarks
- Demonstrated track record of quickly producing original copy.
- Track record of coordinating multiple priorities under tight deadlines and completing deliverables on schedule
- Superior attention to detail
- Able to quicky and fully accept and incorporate feedback in written material
- Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as on a team
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree a plus.
- International Relations, international economics and/or strong experience in a related field preferred.
Responsibilities
- Research, draft, fact-check, and/or proofread short-form and long-form articles, opinion pieces, columns, speeches and remarks, memoranda, and long-form analyses on a variety of topics
- Produce the President’s weekly newsletter, The World This Week
- Collaborate with CFR staff, including Vice Presidents and Senior Fellows, to gather relevant information and insights for written and researched products
- Deliver detailed and timely briefings for the President ahead of speaking engagements, including moderated panels and fireside chats
- Provide regular briefings on domestic and foreign policy news developments and stay informed ongoing developments in U.S. foreign policy
- Prepare briefings on tight turnarounds for in-person, virtual, and live media engagements
- Correspond with speakers and presiders to prepare background materials ahead of speaking and media engagements
- Staff the President during events at CFR’s offices as well as outside engagements and business travel beyond regular business hours as needed
- Perform any other duties or tasks as assigned or required.
Benefits
- award-winning health and wellness program
- on-site fitness center
- generous leave policies
- health insurance programs
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
