Fellow/Senior Fellow

The Center for a New American Security (CNAS) seeks to hire a Fellow / Senior Fellow to join the Technology and National Security Program. This is a three-year appointment.

Ideal candidates will have experience in research and policy development at the intersection of technology and national security and an interest in U.S. technological competitiveness and policy. Policy-relevant knowledge and expertise in strategic technologies, particularly semiconductors/microelectronics, artificial intelligence, information and communications technology, and digital infrastructure is preferred. Knowledge of economic statecraft matters, such as export controls, is a plus.

The Fellow / Senior Fellow’s primary responsibility (75 percent of their time) will be leading a research project to better understand and shape opportunities for compute governance, including identifying which government policies, private sector actions, and/or technological developments would increase or decrease the controllability of compute in the future.

The remainder of the Fellow / Senior Fellow’s time will be working on other research lines of effort of the Technology and National Security Program. The program explores the national security challenges associated with foundational and emerging technologies. Technology is an important enabler of military, economic, and political power. Rapid developments in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, networking and social media, and disinformation are profoundly altering the national security landscape. A key focus of the program is bringing together the technology and policy communities to better understand these challenges and develop solutions.

Responsibilities

The following is an overview of primary responsibilities. Other tasks may be required, and responsibilities will vary over time.

RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS

• Design and implement a research project to better understand and shape opportunities for compute governance.
• Design and implement new projects, research methodologies, and in-depth analysis on technology and national security issues.
• Write and publish high quality, rigorously developed reports, policy analyses, journal articles, op-eds, commentaries, and other written products related to core program themes and other CNAS research priorities.
• Engage outside experts to conduct research and analysis related to the program’s mission.
• Collaborate with other CNAS research programs.
• Conduct domestic and international research trips.

OUTREACH

• Lead and participate in events, such as working groups, panel discussions, roundtables, and task force meetings.
• Conduct consultative meetings and outreach to senior executive branch and defense officials, members of Congress and their staffs, and technology leaders in the public and private sectors.
• Serve as an expert commentator in the media and engage in public outreach through social media, podcasts, public speaking, and other outlets.
• Engage key constituency groups and organizations, including domestic and foreign professional associations, relevant multilateral institutions and bodies, and counterpart research or advisory institutions in the United States and abroad.

PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT

• Research potential funders.
• Prepare and manage project budgets in conjunction with Center staff.
• Engage and liaise with current and prospective donors.
• Develop project proposals and grant applications in coordination with Program and Center staff.
• Prepare and submit interim and final grant reports.

EVENT DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT

• Formulate event agendas including themes and speakers.
• Design, lead, and manage workshops, roundtable discussions, and other events that contribute to Center’s research agenda.

PUBLICATION MANAGEMENT

• Edit CNAS papers and reports for substance, style, and layout.
• Coordinate with outside authors as needed.
• Manage publication schedules and deadlines.
• Collaborate with Center staff to develop compelling graphics, data visualizations, and other methods of content-delivery.
• Craft and execute strategies to promote research among target audiences.

INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Participate in candidate interviews, employee orientation, and other personnel processes.
• Attend internal meetings and represent CNAS at outside events.
• Mentor colleagues and future security leaders both formally and informally.
• Networking, messaging, and outreach.
• Staff CNAS activities as needed.
• Travel as needed, domestic and international.

Qualifications

Required:

• Excellent writing skills, including diligent self-editing and fact checking.
• Strong organizational skills and uncompromising attention to detail.
• Ability to train, supervise, support, and work collaboratively with others in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in policies for emerging technology, either as a researcher or practitioner.
• Project management experience and a demonstrated ability to develop and carry out a project work plan.
• Discretion, especially with regard to judging the quality of data and competing information sources.
• Willingness and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Collegial and ethical professionalism committed to finding solutions and working collaboratively.
• Master’s degree in a relevant area of study (e.g., political science, international relations, security studies, engineering, or sciences). 
• Legal right to work in the United States. 
• Based in Washington, D.C.

Preferred:

• Science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or technical analytic education and/or work experience.

About CNAS

The Center for a New American Security develops bold, innovative, and bipartisan national security and defense policies that promote and protect American interests and values. Building on the deep expertise and broad experience of its staff and advisors, CNAS engages policymakers, experts, and the public with innovative fact-based research, ideas, and analysis to shape and elevate the national security debate. As an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit research organization, CNAS leads efforts to help inform and prepare the national security leaders of today and tomorrow. CNAS is located in Washington, D.C.

CNAS is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.