Fellow (Job ID: 2023-3350)

Join one of the most influential, most quoted and most trusted think tanks!  

The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit public policy organization based in Washington, DC. Our mission is to conduct in-depth research that leads to new ideas for solving problems facing society at the local, national and global level.  

We bring together leading experts in government and academia from all over the world, rooted in open-minded inquiry and representing diverse points of view, who provide the highest quality research, policy recommendations, and analysis. Research topics cover a full range of public policy issues in economics, foreign policy, development, governance and metropolitan policy. 

With fair and transparent business practices, clear communication, mutual respect, and a collaborative atmosphere that offers both professional and personal development opportunities, Brookings offers an inclusive and welcoming workplace that values the efforts of all contributors. 

The Brookings Metro program delivers research and solutions to help metropolitan leaders build an advanced economy that works for all. To learn more, please visit brookings.edu/metro. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/brookingsmetro. 

Position Location: This position is hybrid. Hybrid positions combine regular in-person presence at our Washington, DC office with the option of at least two days of remote work each week.  

Vaccine Policy: Brookings requires all staff to submit proof of complete vaccination against COVID-19 to be in Brookings buildings.   

Individuals that (i) have a qualifying medical condition that contraindicates a COVID-19 vaccination, or (ii) who object to being vaccinated based on a sincerely held religious belief, may request a reasonable accommodation.  Brookings policies on masks and other pandemic mitigation measures will continue to be informed by DC and CDC guidelines.   

Ready to contribute to Brookings success? 

The Fellow in Brookings Metro conducts, publishes, and promotes in-depth, high quality public policy research on topics relevant to the well-being of people and places in cities and regions. The Fellow will assist with the development and direction of the Valuing Black Assets Initiative (VBAI) in Brookings Metro. Works with the Senior Fellow to develop and execute an overall research agenda and policy strategy for the Valuing Black Assets Initiative. In addition to independent research, the Fellow seeks opportunities to collaborate with other scholars across the Institution, and mentors early-career staff. In addition to independent research, the Fellow seeks opportunities to collaborate with other scholars in Metro and across the Institution, and mentors early-career staff. Fellows partner with Metro Development staff to build and steward funding for their work, and with communications staff to effectively promote and disseminate it.

Research (65%)

• Conduct in-depth, high-quality public policy research in area of expertise, independently and in collaboration with other scholars.
• Develop research concepts, policy questions, and work plans for papers and reports.
• Author or co-author policy and research reports, blogs, op-eds, and other commentary
• Meet with and brief relevant external contacts on research.
• Present research and give talks at select outside meetings or conferences.
• Convene roundtables, author conferences, and public events to inform research and disseminate work.
• Work with and mentor research assistants and analysts, to produce research and to facilitate their professional development.

Communications & Dissemination (25%)

• Promote Brookings Metro’s mission and expand its influence.
• Engage with academics, policymakers, and industry experts to identify authors, speakers, and discussants for publications and events.
• Organize private and public events to discuss and promote their own and commissioned research as well as public policy issues.
• Collaborate with Metro Communications and others to create and execute dissemination and promotion strategies for research products.
• Serve as a resource to media, as appropriate, in areas of expertise.
• Participate in Brookings and Brookings Metro seminars, working groups, recruitment, etc., make oneself available for expert assistance, and contribute to a spirit of collaboration.

Fundraising (10%)

• Design, develop, and steward funding proposals, and work with Metro’s Development team on development priorities as needed.
• In consultation with Metro’s Development team, stewards relationships with current Brookings funders.

Ready to make an impact? In this role, you will support Brookings values of collegiality, respect, inclusion, diversity and community, and bring the following qualifications: 

Education/Experience Requirements: 

Bachelor’s degree in economics, public policy, political science, geography, or other social science required with a minimum of seven years of work experience in fast-paced, public sector-oriented office (e.g., government, non-profit, or policy/political organizations), or master’s degree in a related field with a minimum of five years’ work experience. However, a PhD in a related field is strongly preferred. Must have a demonstrated ability to understand and write knowledgeably about public policy issues from a city/regional perspective.

Knowledge/Skill Requirements:

Must be able to lead independent research and competently lead issue-focused meetings, initiatives, high-level conferences, and other events without supervision. Must be comfortable working with high-ranking decision makers, senior government officials, current and potential funders, and Brookings senior management. Commitment to contributing to a supportive and productive workplace with a diverse workforce. Must have an interest in or experience with mentoring junior staff and an ability to work collegially with staff at all levels and in all job profiles.

Additional Information: 

What can we offer you? Brookings provides a generous benefit package that is comprehensive and includes both traditional benefits and unique offerings. 

Brookings requires that all applicants submit a cover letter and resume. Please attach your cover letter and resume as one document when you apply. Please note: if you have applied to more than one Brookings job opening you should add a position-specific cover letter as a separate attachment. 

Successful completion of a background investigation is required for employment at Brookings. 

Brookings welcomes and celebrates diversity in all its forms.  We welcome applications that reflect a variety of backgrounds based on ideology, race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, first generation college goers, and other factors protected by law. Brookings is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace.