Program Manager & Research Associate - Renewing American Innovation

Job Summary

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a non‑profit, bipartisan public policy organization established in 1962 to provide strategic insights and practical policy solutions to decision makers concerned with global security and prosperity. Over the years, it has grown to be one of the largest organizations of its kind, with a staff of some 200 employees, including more than 120 analysts working to address the changing dynamics of international security across the globe.

CSIS seeks a Program Manager & Research Assistant to support the Renewing American Innovation (RAI) team. RAI explores the policies and partnerships that will secure the United States’ role as a leading innovator while ensuring that all Americans have a shared stake in the innovation economy. Producing insightful analysis and convening stakeholders from across the innovation ecosystem, RAI seeks to foster a public appreciation for the networks and institutions to which we owe much of our prosperity today.

RAI sits within the Economic Security and Technology (EST) Department  salary range for this position is $65,000–$69,000.

• Conduct independent research, data analysis, and the development of policy papers, studies, and reports on issues of global technology policy
• Oversee and manage the program budget and pipeline, including managing consulting payments, internal program transfers, and expense tracking via budgeting and expense tracking software programs
• Liaise directly with the deputy director, meeting regularly to develop a budgeting strategy for all programmatic activities
• Help manage program activities, including strategic planning, initiative development, and oversight of day‑to‑day operations
• Coordinate and develop relationships with funding sources and help cultivate new donors
• Organize and facilitate public and private events such as round tables, briefings, and conferences
• Manage and work closely with the team’s many senior advisers and other research affiliates via papers, reports, public events, and other collaborations
• Support fundraising efforts, including grant writing, proposal development, donor engagement; manage budgets, contracts, and reporting for funded projects
• Contribute to outreach strategies, including public speaking, media engagement, and dissemination of research findings

• M.A. required in Political Science, International Relations, Economics, Public Policy, or other relevant fields
• Proven ability to produce high‑quality written materials, ideally analytical reports with policy recommendations relating to quantum science, advanced manufacturing, and technology policy for global and domestic audiences
• Qualitative research skills are required
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office products required; advanced Excel skills are a plus
• Superior attention to detail and organizational skills
• Experience planning and executing public and private events
• Sound judgment, impeccable integrity, positive attitude, and creative outlook
• Ability to operate under pressure and in a fast‑paced environment
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present information effectively and respond to questions from constituency groups, media, governmental entities, and the general public, including senior U.S. Government representatives, international organizations, and foreign governments
• Self‑starting, entrepreneurial mindset with the capacity to work well independently and in teams

The position will be primarily in person at CSIS’s office in Washington, with some ability for remote work. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status. Equal Opportunity Employer.

Interested applicants should submit a résumé and a one‑page cover letter.