Graduate Jobs at Global Think Tanks – Applications Now Open for 2025!
Graduate Jobs at Global Think Tanks – Applications Now Open for 2025! Are you a recent graduate eager to contribute to cutting-edge research, inform policy debates, and influence global decision-making? Top global think tanks are actively recruiting for their 2025 cohorts, offering exceptional entry-level positions, research assistant roles, and structured graduate programs. These opportunities are ideal for ambitious individuals passionate about international affairs, public policy, economics, and various specialized fields, providing a unique launchpad for a impactful career.
ALSO CHECK: UNICEF NextGen Fellowship & Graduate Programs – 2025 Roles Available!
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Background & Job Description
Think tanks are independent research organizations that generate policy-oriented research and analysis to advise policymakers, the public, and media. Global think tanks are at the forefront of addressing complex international challenges, from climate change and global security to economic development and democratic governance. Graduate jobs at these institutions typically involve rigorous research, data analysis, report writing, and contributing to high-level discussions. While many roles are research-intensive, some may also involve program coordination, communications, or administrative support. These positions offer a chance to work alongside world-renowned experts, gain exposure to diverse policy debates, and build a strong foundation for a career in academia, government, or international organizations.
Tasks
Tasks for graduate roles at think tanks often include:
- Conducting in-depth qualitative and quantitative research on specific policy issues, regional dynamics, or global trends.
- Collecting, organizing, and analyzing data, including statistical analysis, literature reviews, and expert interviews.
- Drafting research papers, policy briefs, reports, articles, and presentations for various audiences.
- Assisting senior researchers and fellows with their ongoing projects, publications, and events.
- Contributing to project management, including monitoring timelines and deliverables.
- Supporting the organization of conferences, workshops, and expert roundtables.
- Monitoring relevant policy developments and contributing to daily news briefings.
- Preparing background materials and summaries for meetings with policymakers and stakeholders.
Graduate Jobs at Global Think Tanks – Applications Now Open for 2025!
Qualifications
Education and Certification
- Typically, a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as International Relations, Political Science, Economics, Public Policy, Law, Development Studies, Regional Studies, or a specialized scientific/technical field is highly preferred for most research-oriented roles.
- For some entry-level research assistant positions, a strong Bachelor’s degree with relevant research experience may be considered.
- Excellent academic record is generally a prerequisite.
- Fluency in English (both written and spoken) is essential. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the think tank’s focus (e.g., Arabic, Chinese, French, Spanish, Russian, German) is a significant asset.
Experience
- Demonstrated strong research, analytical, and writing skills, evidenced by academic papers, thesis, or previous professional work.
- Prior internship experience at a think tank, research institution, government agency, or international organization is highly advantageous.
- Proficiency in relevant research methodologies and software (e.g., statistical packages, qualitative analysis tools, citation management software).
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced intellectual environment.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
- A clear interest and foundational knowledge in the thematic areas of the specific think tank.
Additional Information
Graduate jobs at global think tanks are usually paid, offering competitive salaries or stipends. While some internship programs may be unpaid, core research and professional roles are remunerated. Many positions are based in major global cities like Washington D.C., London, Brussels, Berlin, or Beijing, requiring in-person presence, though hybrid models are becoming more common. Application deadlines for 2025 cohorts vary widely by institution and program; it is crucial to check each think tank’s individual careers page regularly.
Key Think Tanks and Links to Positions (Please check individual websites for 2025 openings as they are typically posted on a rolling basis):
- Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) (USA – New York, Washington D.C.): Offers research associate and program assistant roles.
- Brookings Institution (USA – Washington D.C.): Known for various research internships (some paid) and research support roles.
- Chatham House (The Royal Institute of International Affairs) (UK – London): Offers research roles, internships, and fellowships.
- Carnegie Endowment for International Peace (USA – Washington D.C., and global centers): The James C. Gaither Junior Fellows Program is a highly competitive, paid program for graduating seniors with a strong interest in international affairs.
- Carnegie Endowment – Junior Fellows Program (via university nominations) – Note: Applications for the 2025-2026 cohort often close very early, usually by January of the preceding year, through university nomination programs.
- Carnegie Endowment – Careers
- RAND Corporation (USA – various locations, and UK): Hires Research Assistants and Associate Policy Researchers across diverse policy areas.
- Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS) (Belgium – Brussels): Focuses on EU policy and offers research positions.
- German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) (Germany – Berlin): Offers research positions, including some for early-career researchers.
- Bruegel (Belgium – Brussels): A leading European economics think tank.
- Atlantic Council (USA – Washington D.C.): Focuses on international affairs and global challenges.
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