Opportunity
The non-resident fellow position at Defense Priorities (DEFP) is part-time role and an opportunity to be a leading voice arguing for a realistic U.S. foreign policy. The organization holds the view that the U.S. is suffering from decades of strategic overstretch encouraged by its grand strategy of “liberal hegemony.” We believe this strategy encourages excessive spending in pursuit of global dominance and will require even more spending as rival nations grow more capable of self-defense. DEFP promotes an alternate grand strategy of “restraint,” which values a balance of power abroad, rather than U.S. dominance per se, as desirable.
Non-resident fellows will work part-time with DEFP’s policy team to elevate and operationalize foreign policies based on restraint. They should align their own interests and expertise with DEFP’s agenda to produce useful research and commentary. DEFP will work to connect non-resident fellows with the policy community in Washington, especially when it comes to promoting their writing, which could come int he form of op-eds, reports, papers, and more.
Non-resident fellows will also engage in discussion and outreach with policymakers, media outlets, and the public about key policies and issues.
Responsibilities
- Developing and promoting major research projects to articulate policies based on a grand strategy of restraint
- Writing policy reports, briefs, journal papers, or op-eds on important issues related to U.S. security and foreign policy, as well as working with DEFP team members to promote work after publication
- Organizing and leading symposia, roundtables, and workshops with journalists and policymakers on issues at the intersection of defense policy, international security, and world affairs
- Keeping abreast of current foreign policy trends, tracking the agenda of the current administration and policy proposals
- Identifying and pursuing opportunities to present ideas and research at public events, conferences, and think tank panel discussions
- Working with DEFP team to elevate our ideas through social media, online videos, data visualizations, and other media
Qualifications
- Master’s degree or Ph.D. in political science, international affairs, or a related field
- 5–10 years of professional and research experience in U.S. foreign policy
- Professional experience with defense budgeting, either as analyst or practitioner is desirable
- Demonstration of high-quality work in a professional, demanding environment
- Self-starter with an ability to translate abstract concepts into practical policy applications
- Ability to balance multiple, competing directions, identify and delegate tasks effectively, and manage multiple projects successfully
- Outstanding writing, research, and communication skills
Additional information
DEFP is headquartered in Washington, DC, but applicants hired for this position will work remotely. The position is part time, but opportunities for growth exist.
We look for the following qualities in candidates: Integrity, intelligence, innovative/creative thinking, flexibility/adaptability, curiosity, strong story-telling capability, strong work ethic, passion, and positive energy.
Candidates who meet the requirements are encouraged to apply below. If you have additional questions, please email jobs@defensepriorities.org.