Fellow / Senior Fellow (Job ID: 2024-3382)

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 Global Economy and Development program at The Brookings Institution (Brookings) is accepting applications for the position of Fellow/Senior Fellow to lead a body of research and engagement on skills, digital credentials, and pathways for workforce development around the world. The Global Economy and Development (Global) program at Brookings equips global, national, and local policymakers with the cutting-edge knowledge and actionable tools they need to address shared challenges and achieve a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous economic system for all. Global program scholars draw on their significant experience and deep expertise to engage in in-depth, nonpartisan research and analysis aimed at offering innovative policy solutions and tools to help global, national, and local policymakers build more inclusive and sustainable economies. 

This is a termed position through November 30, 2025, with extension contingent on funding.

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. 

This role will feature engagement with two groups housed in the Global Economy and Development program (Global): the Center for Universal Education and the Workforce of the Future initiative. The Fellow/Senior Fellow will report directly to the Vice President and Director of the Global program and is expected to lead projects; conduct, publish, and promote in-depth, high quality public policy research in areas of their expertise; convene public and private events; engage with a wide range of stakeholders; and work on policy-relevant publications. While the specific program of work will depend to some extent on the candidate’s interests and background, the Fellow/Senior Fellow should have expertise in issues related to innovative approaches to skills and workforce development and certification and how these translate into labor market outcomes . The main responsibilities of the position include: research and writing, internal management, and engagement with external stakeholders, including funders and policymakers.

Building on their research and policy experience, the Fellow/Senior Fellow will anchor the program’s workstream on skills development and labor market outcomes. They will produce regular knowledge products, which may include policy-relevant papers, briefs, reports, books, journal articles, and other commentary. They will oversee data collection, undertake qualitative and quantitative data analysis, and capture key learnings and insights. They will lead issue-focused meetings, conferences, and other events; develop and manage new partnerships; interact with and engage with other Brookings scholars, current and potential funders, the wider policy community, and the media. They will lead and actively participate in Global program and scholar community activities, including seminars, recruitment activities, and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. The Fellow/Senior Fellow will also actively participate in funding efforts, including managing and stewarding of existing donor relationships and cultivation of new prospects.

Throughout all their work, Fellows/Senior Fellows support a welcoming and inclusive community while upholding Brookings’s standards of quality and independence. This includes, but is not limited to, appropriately managing all conflicts of interest.

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

The position will be filled at either the Fellow or Senior Fellow level, as determined by the expertise and accomplishments of the candidate and the needs of the Global Economy and Development program. Candidates for this position should hold a PhD in economics, public policy, international development or a related social science field. A minimum of six years of relevant research or policy-related post-doctoral experience, ideally in a fast-paced work environment and with a focus on applied economic policy issues, is required to be considered for this role. Candidates considered at the senior level will be recognized and respected leaders in their area of expertise and must have at least three of the following: A PhD or other terminal degree in relevant field. Proven record of publishing that demonstrates in-depth research, rigorous analysis, recognized excellence in the field, and policy relevance. Publications can be from professional or academic journals, edited volumes, single-authored books, and/or policy-oriented publications. Significant professional experience from the public, private, academic, or non-profit sectors. For scholars whose work is practitioner-based, candidates must be able to demonstrate an exceptional professional track record with significant leadership, strategy, and policy experience. Track record of academic or policy impact, such as framing issues, setting agendas, or affecting evidence-based changes in policy and practice. The successful candidate will be capable of providing breakthrough thinking in skills development, the impact of technological change on labor trends, pathways to work and ongoing workforce development globally. For Senior Fellow candidates: When selected as a finalist, the candidate will be asked to provide three (3) letters of recommendation from recognized and respected leaders in the field.

Knowledge/Skill Requirements

The successful candidate should be an expert with stature and reputation and possess a deep passion and understanding of labor markets, technology, and innovations in skills and workforce development. Candidates should have strong oral and written communication skills, a demonstrated interest and passion in policy guidance and advising, and strong quantitative and/or qualitative analysis skills. Must be able to build partnerships with external organizations and government policymakers, participate in fundraising, and work collaboratively across disciplines and with multiple stakeholders. The position requires domestic and international travel. Fluency in English is required.

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.