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Research Think Tank Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Automat

Applied AI Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$175K - $220K/yr

... Innovation Think Tank. We're building a future where intelligent agents run real business ... Research and deploy real-world applications of cutting-edge AI models * Design and implement ...

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Research Think Tank information

What is a research think tank?

A research think tank is an organization that conducts research and analysis on various public policy issues, such as economics, politics, social policy, or technology. These organizations aim to inform and influence policymakers, stakeholders, and the public through reports, recommendations, and events. Think tanks may be independent or affiliated with governments, universities, or other institutions, and their work often helps shape debates and decisions on important societal challenges.

How does collaboration typically work within a research think tank, and what can new team members expect in terms of interdisciplinary teamwork?

In a research think tank, collaboration is fundamental, with projects often requiring input from experts in various fields such as economics, policy, data analysis, and communications. New team members can expect to work closely with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, contributing their expertise while learning from others. Regular meetings, brainstorming sessions, and joint authorship of reports are common, fostering a dynamic environment where ideas are shared and refined collectively. This interdisciplinary teamwork not only enhances the quality of research but also provides valuable learning and networking opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a research think tank role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Research Think Tank, you need advanced analytical skills, subject-matter expertise (often demonstrated by an advanced degree), and strong research methodology knowledge. Familiarity with statistical software (such as Stata, R, or SPSS), data visualization tools, and academic databases is typically required. Outstanding written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and collaboration abilities help in translating complex findings for diverse audiences and working within multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for producing impactful, evidence-based insights that inform policy and public discourse.

What is the difference between Research Think Tank vs Research Analyst?

AspectResearch Think TankResearch Analyst
CredentialsMaster's or PhD often preferredBachelor's or Master's typically required
Work EnvironmentPolicy institutes, academic settings, or nonprofit organizationsCorporations, consulting firms, or government agencies
Industry UsagePolicy research, public affairs, academiaMarket research, data analysis, business insights
Primary FocusDeveloping policy recommendations and in-depth researchAnalyzing data to inform business decisions

Research Think Tanks focus on policy development and academic research, often working in nonprofit or government-related environments. Research Analysts typically work in corporate or consulting settings, analyzing data to support business strategies. While both roles involve research skills, their objectives and work settings differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Research Think Tank jobs in California?

For Research Think Tank jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Think Tank jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Think Tank jobs in California are:

Research Think Tank jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Think Tank job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution.

Research Fellow, Clinical Trial Policy

Clearpath

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Foundation for American Innovation champions the technology, talent, and ideas essential to American prosperity, security, and flourishing. We are builders, hackers, and scholars advancing an optimistic vision of the future—aligning technology with human ends to forge a more perfect union between innovation and the American republic.

To further this mission, FAI is seeking a research fellow to lead a new focus area on clinical trial abundance: accelerating the generation of high-quality clinical evidence by making trials faster, less costly, and more innovation-friendly. Reporting to the director of science and innovation, the senior fellow will be responsible for producing original research and commentary, developing policy ideas, and building relationships with policymakers.

This full-time position is based in Washington, DC. Hybrid or remote work options are negotiable for exceptional candidates. The ideal candidate will have a background in health policy, clinical research, FDA regulation, or a related field, and will be eager to apply that expertise at a think tank.

Responsibilities
  • Develop actionable policy proposals to reduce unnecessary regulatory, administrative, and compliance burdens in clinical research while preserving rigorous standards for safety, efficacy, and public trust.
  • Produce written work for policy and public audiences, including reports, essays, op-eds, testimony, regulatory comments, memos, and briefing materials.
  • Engage policymakers, agency officials, scholars, technologists, clinicians, patient advocates, industry leaders, and other stakeholders to inform FAI’s work and advance practical reform ideas.
  • Build relationships across the science, technology, health, and innovation policy communities to expand the coalition interested in clinical trial abundance.
  • Represent FAI publicly in meetings, conferences, convenings, media opportunities, and published commentary.
Qualifications

We invite candidates across every stage of their career and from diverse professional landscapes to apply. Successful candidates will demonstrate the following:

  • Enthusiastic support for FAI’s mission.
  • Experience or serious interest in health policy, science policy, biomedical innovation, clinical research, FDA regulation, medicine, law, academia, government, industry, or a related field.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
  • Ability to translate complex scientific, regulatory, and technical concepts for non-specialist audiences.
  • Strong judgment about what makes a policy idea both intellectually serious and practically actionable.
  • Interest in reducing bureaucratic barriers to innovation and helping American institutions better support scientific and technological progress.
  • Familiarity with FDA law and regulation, drug development, clinical trial operations, research ethics, health data infrastructure, or biomedical R&D.
  • Experience working with or around Congress, federal agencies, think tanks, advocacy organizations, industry, academia, or policy campaigns.
Benefits & Perks
  • Salary range of $125,000–$150,000 (negotiable based on experience)
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) match up to 6%
  • $1,000 annual book credit
  • Monthly commuter benefit
  • Unlimited vacation policy

FAI is an equal‑opportunity employer. We review applications for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, uniformed services, genetic information, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

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