Visual Designer

About CISES
The Centre for International Security and Economic Strategy (CISES) is an independent, London-based think tank dedicated to examining the complex intersection of global security, geopolitics, and economic policy.
In an era of rapid shifts in the international order, CISES delivers rigorous, evidence-based insight into global risk, regional crises, and emerging strategic challenges. By bridging the gap between rigorous academic analysis and practical policy debate, we empower policymakers, researchers, and the public with the tools needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
Since our establishment, CISES has published more than 350 research outputs, built a community of more than 14,000 followers, and generated over 1 million views across our website and digital platforms.
As CISES continues to expand its research output and digital presence, we are seeking additional Visual Designers to strengthen how our research is presented and communicated.
Our designers work across research publications and digital content, translating complex ideas, arguments and data into clear and engaging visual material. You will work with researchers, editors and members of the Digital Team to develop graphics that complement CISES analysis while maintaining a consistent organisational visual identity.
The role is particularly suited to someone interested in combining visual communication with international affairs, policy and research.
About the role
As a Visual Designer, you will be responsible for:
Designing graphics, visual assets and illustrations to accompany and amplify CISES research, reports and other publications in accordance with our house style and visual identity.
Creating data visualisations and infographics that communicate quantitative findings, trends and complex policy issues clearly and accurately.
Translating research into accessible visual concepts, working with analysts and editors to identify information, arguments and findings that would benefit from visual presentation.
Developing visual material for CISES's digital platforms, adapting research and publication assets for use across our website and social media channels where required.
Supporting the visual presentation of major reports and projects, including the development of report graphics, charts, diagrams, covers and other supporting material.
Maintaining consistency across CISES's visual output, ensuring that graphics comply with organisational branding, typography, formatting and design standards.
Collaborating with researchers, editors and the wider Digital Team to ensure visual material accurately represents the underlying research and is delivered alongside publication schedules.
Contributing ideas to the continued development of CISES's visual identity, including new formats, templates and approaches for communicating research.
Qualifications in the role
Demonstrable ability in graphic design and visual communication, supported by a portfolio or examples of previous work.
Experience using relevant design software, such as Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Figma, Canva, or comparable tools.
Ability to present complex information in a clear, accurate and visually engaging format.
Strong understanding of fundamental design principles, including typography, hierarchy, composition, layout and visual consistency.
Strong attention to detail and an ability to work within an established house style and brand identity.
Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently in a remote environment.
Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with researchers, editors and other members of a multidisciplinary team.
Desirable
Experience producing data visualisations, infographics, maps, diagrams or research graphics.
Experience designing material for research organisations, think tanks, universities, journalism, policy organisations or similar environments.
Familiarity with international security, geopolitics, economics, defence, emerging technologies or international affairs.
Experience adapting designs for different digital formats and social media platforms.
Experience contributing to or maintaining an organisational design system or visual identity.
Benefits
Exposure to senior policymakers and experts working across geopolitics, economics, defence, technology and international affairs.
The opportunity to build a substantial professional design portfolio, with published work attached to CISES research and projects.
Opportunities to collaborate directly with researchers and translate complex policy analysis into public-facing visual communication.
The opportunity to expand your professional network and gain visibility through published work.
Development of transferable professional, design and communications skills.
An entrepreneurial and international environment where taking initiative and developing new ideas is strongly encouraged.
Opportunities for internal progression and promotion as CISES's Digital Team continues to expand.
After five months of reliable contribution, eligibility for a professional recommendation from the Director of Policy.
Important note
Please note that this is an unpaid, volunteer position. CISES is committed to providing flexibility and will work with you to accommodate your professional, academic and personal commitments.

Work arrangement
Yes