Chief of Staff to the Director & Director of Research _ Volunteer

FOUNDING LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES (VOLUNTEER)
Chief of Staff to the Director & Director of Research
EU Policy Insight | European Policy Research, Strategic Affairs & International Cooperation
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ABOUT EU POLICY INSIGHT
EU Policy Insight is an independent policy research and analysis initiative focused on European affairs, EU institutions, public policy, international relations and strategic developments.
Our work covers areas including EU governance, artificial intelligence, digital regulation, data protection, economic policy, cybersecurity, fundamental rights and international relations.
Our ambition is to develop an internationally connected European think tank that brings together researchers, academics and policy professionals to produce independent research, contribute to informed policy debate and encourage international cooperation.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITIES
As EU Policy Insight develops its institutional structure and research activities, we are inviting applications for two voluntary founding leadership positions.
We are looking for motivated and capable individuals who would like to contribute their expertise, experience and ideas to the development of an emerging European policy research institution.
1. CHIEF OF STAFF TO THE DIRECTOR
Office of the Director | Senior Leadership | Voluntary / Unpaid
The Chief of Staff will work closely with the Director, supporting institutional development, strategic coordination and the implementation of the institute's priorities.
Main responsibilities:
- Support the Director in strategic planning and institutional development.
- Coordinate activities and communication across the institute.
- Monitor projects, priorities and key commitments.
- Support international relations and institutional partnerships.
- Prepare briefings, correspondence and meeting materials.
- Assist in coordinating the Director's Office and representing the institute when authorized.
Ideal candidate:
- Academic or professional background in European Studies, International Relations, Political Science, Law, Public Policy, Economics, Management or a related field.
- Strong organizational, communication and analytical skills.
- Interest or experience in institutional coordination, project management or international cooperation.
- Professionalism, initiative and the ability to work independently.
- Excellent command of English.
2. DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH
Research and Policy Analysis | Senior Research Leadership | Voluntary / Unpaid
The Director of Research will lead and coordinate the institute's research activities, helping establish its research priorities, publication standards and academic credibility.
Main responsibilities:
- Develop and coordinate the institute's research agenda.
- Coordinate researchers and external contributors.
- Oversee the quality and development of research papers, policy briefs and reports.
- Promote rigorous, independent and evidence-based analysis.
- Develop cooperation with universities, research centres and think tanks.
- Identify opportunities for joint research projects and academic partnerships.
Ideal candidate:
- Advanced postgraduate qualification, preferably a PhD, in a relevant discipline.
- Background in European Studies, International Relations, Political Science, Law, Economics, Public Policy or a related field.
- Demonstrated research, academic or policy analysis experience.
- Strong writing, analytical and research skills.
- Experience with academic publications or research coordination is an advantage.
- Excellent command of English.
WHAT WE OFFER
Successful candidates will have the opportunity to:
- Contribute to the development of an emerging European think tank.
- Help shape its institutional direction and research priorities.
- Work directly with the Director and the wider leadership team.
- Collaborate with researchers, academics and policy professionals.
- Contribute to publications, research initiatives and international cooperation.
- Build professional connections within the European policy research community.
IMPORTANT: VOLUNTARY AND UNPAID POSITIONS
Both positions are currently voluntary and unpaid. They do not include financial remuneration at this stage.
We welcome candidates who are genuinely interested in European affairs, independent research and institutional development, and who are able to contribute on a voluntary basis.
Any future remuneration or changes to these arrangements would depend on the institute's financial capacity and require a separate agreement.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates are invited to submit:
- An updated CV.
- A short motivation letter explaining their interest in the position.
- Relevant academic, professional or research experience.
- Examples of publications or previous work, where applicable.
or send us by email.
To
[email protected]
[email protected]
Please specify which position you are applying for:
- Chief of Staff to the Director
- Director of Research
We welcome applications from individuals who share our commitment to independent research, European policy and international cooperation.
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EU POLICY INSIGHT
Independent Research. European Policy. Strategic Insight.

Skills
Artificial Intelligence, Project Management

Experience
10+ yrs

Work arrangement
Yes