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How much do foreign policy think tank jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for foreign policy think tank in the United States is $100,949.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a foreign policy think tank?

A foreign policy think tank is an organization that conducts research, analysis, and advocacy on international relations and global policy issues. These institutions provide expertise and recommendations to governments, businesses, and the public to help shape foreign policy decisions. They often publish reports, host events, and engage with policymakers to influence debates on topics such as security, diplomacy, and international development. Think tanks may be independent or affiliated with universities, governments, or other organizations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a researcher at a foreign policy think tank?

As a researcher at a foreign policy think tank, your daily tasks often include conducting in-depth analysis on international affairs, drafting policy briefs or reports, and staying current on global news and trends. You may also collaborate with senior fellows, participate in internal strategy meetings, and engage with external stakeholders such as government officials or media. Networking and attending events or conferences are common, offering opportunities for professional growth and expanding your influence in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a foreign policy think tank analyst?

To thrive as a Foreign Policy Think Tank Analyst, you need strong research abilities, analytical thinking, and expertise in international relations, often supported by an advanced degree in political science, international affairs, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy databases, and sometimes foreign language proficiency are commonly required, along with experience using platforms like LexisNexis and qualitative research software. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical reasoning, and networking skills help analysts effectively convey insights and build influential relationships. These competencies are crucial for producing impactful policy recommendations and shaping public discourse on global issues.

What is the difference between Foreign Policy Think Tank vs Policy Analyst?

AspectForeign Policy Think TankPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in International Relations, Political Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Political Science, Public Policy, or related areas
Work EnvironmentResearch institutes, think tanks, policy research organizationsGovernment agencies, consulting firms, research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit, policy research, advocacy groups focused on foreign policyGovernment, think tanks, private sector consulting

Foreign Policy Think Tanks focus on conducting in-depth research and analysis on international issues, often producing reports and policy recommendations. Policy Analysts interpret and evaluate policies, providing recommendations based on research. While both roles require strong analytical skills and relevant credentials, Think Tanks emphasize research and advocacy, whereas Policy Analysts focus on policy evaluation and advising stakeholders.

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Foreign Policy Think Tank jobs near you
Infographic showing various Foreign Policy Think Tank job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,949 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

Research Associate, Women and Foreign Policy

Council on Foreign Relations

Washington, DC • On-site

$55K - $58K/yr

Other

Medical

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
CFR's David Rockefeller Studies Program is one of the country's largest foreign policy think tanks, with a widely respected and influential research staff. The Studies Program's aim is to advance the discussion of American foreign policy and international affairs through its writing, publications, public outreach, and discussions.
The Council on Foreign Relations' Women and Foreign Policy program analyzes how elevating the status of women and girls advances U.S. foreign policy objectives, including peace, prosperity, and security. The program and affiliated fellows inform policymakers, opinion leaders, and the public about issues related to gender equality and U.S. foreign policy through scholarship, roundtable discussions, briefings, and articles. The research associate will support the work of the Senior Fellow for Women and Foreign Policy.
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.
Essential Functions/Responsibilities
  • Researching specific areas, as requested by the fellow, for articles, book chapters, web interactives, and other publications.
  • Providing administrative support to the fellow, handling correspondence, scheduling and calendar management, and responding to media and information requests.
  • Conducting literature reviews based on specific areas of research focus.
  • Coordinating events, including preparing invitations, making travel arrangements, corresponding with speakers and presiders, preparing background papers and materials for distribution, and providing other logistical support.
  • Tracking news and data sources on women's issues and international economic issues.
  • Assisting with the proofreading and editing of articles, book chapters, and other written materials.
  • Assisting in managing budgets, including tracking monthly statements and grant information, drafting grant reports and requests, and preparing vouchers for reimbursement.
  • Assisting the fellow with social media outreach, including publishing a blog, website, video, and/or using social media applications such as Twitter, etc., as needed.
  • Providing support across departmental lines and for other fellows, upon request.

Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in international relations, political science, or related social sciences field
  • Experience on women's issues, political participation and leadership, development, or international economics preferred.
  • At least1 related administrative and/or internship experience

Related Skills & Other Requirements
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Proven interest in women's international policy issues
  • Administrative and/or internship experience
  • Strong research, proofreading, and editing skills
  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills
  • Knowledge of MS Word and Excel, and preferably experience with ProQuest and similar research databases
  • Excellent social media communication skills

Required Application Materials
Please submit a résumé and cover letter stating your interest in the position.
Compensation and Benefits
  • The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $55,000 - $58,000, depending on experience.
  • In addition to competitive salaries, the Council on Foreign Relations offers a benefits package that is among the best offered by nonprofit institutions today, including an award-winning health and wellness program, an on-site fitness center, and generous leave policies and health insurance programs.

About CFR
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is committed to fostering a foreign policy community in the United States that is more representative of American society, recognizing that diverse backgrounds and perspectives contribute to broader, more informed participation in the foreign policy debate and lead to an enhanced understanding of the world and the United States' role therein. To that end, CFR is dedicated to continuing to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout its work and workplace by building a more diverse membership and staff, producing and dispensing thoughtful analysis on a broad range of foreign policy issues, and developing relevant, wide-reaching programming that also serves to expand the foreign policy talent pipeline to underrepresented populations.

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