Role Overview The Centre for International Security and Economic Strategy (CISES) invites applications for the position of Policy Analyst, a voluntary and fully remote role designed for students and recent graduates seeking hands-on experience in policy research and think tank writing. CISES is a youth-led think tank committed to producing rigorous, accessible analysis on international security, defence, global governance, trade, economics, and emerging technologies. This role offers aspiring researchers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful policy discussions while developing analytical, research, and writing skills within a supportive editorial environment. Policy Analysts are encouraged to pursue independent research interests while collaborating with peers and editors to produce high-quality outputs suitable for publication. About CISES CISES serves as a platform for young researchers to engage critically with pressing global challenges. Through evidence-based analysis and policy-relevant writing, the organization aims to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world policy debates. Analysts benefit from mentorship, editorial guidance, and the opportunity to publish under their own name, building a strong professional portfolio. Key Responsibilities Policy Analysts are expected to contribute substantively to CISES’ research output through the following responsibilities: Conduct independent research on topics related to international security, defence, economics, global governance, and strategy Pitch original research ideas and refine them in collaboration with the editorial team Produce written policy outputs aligned with agreed formats and timelines Participate in thematic working groups and collaborate on team-based research projects when applicable Maintain clear, professional, and timely communication with editors and fellow analysts Meet agreed deadlines and proactively communicate any challenges related to workload or availability Workload Expectations CISES operates on a flexible, output-based contribution model, allowing analysts to balance the role alongside academic, professional, or personal commitments. Each month, Policy Analysts are expected to complete one of the following output options: Four short-form pieces, or Two medium-form pieces, or One long-form analytical piece For analysts participating in working groups, the minimum expectation is one short-form piece per month, unless otherwise agreed with the editorial team. CISES recognizes that availability may vary and encourages analysts to communicate proactively if adjustments are needed. Flexibility and transparency are core principles of the organization’s working culture. Eligibility and Requirements Applicants must meet the following criteria: Be a current undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral student, or a recent graduate who completed higher education in 2024 or later Demonstrate a strong interest in international security, defence, economics, or global governance Possess excellent written communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and well-structured analytical writing Be reliable, self-motivated, and capable of working independently to meet deadlines Have professional or native-level English proficiency suitable for policy analysis and publication Previous research or policy experience is advantageous but not required. Applicants are ideally based in the UK, EEA, North America, or Australia/New Zealand. Application Materials Applicants are required to submit the following: A CV or LinkedIn profile A writing sample of at least 300 words on a relevant topic (including university coursework) A cover letter outlining interest in the role and relevant academic or professional background Progression and Benefits While the role is unpaid, CISES offers substantial professional development opportunities, including: Eligibility for promotion to Senior Policy Analyst after nine months of consistent contributions Opportunities to lead or co-lead a working group following demonstrated performance Continued publication of work under the analyst’s name, even after leaving the role Ongoing mentorship and editorial feedback to strengthen analytical and writing skills A LinkedIn recommendation from the Director of Policy after four to five months of active contributions Flexibility to shape individual research agendas and explore diverse policy writing formats Application Process Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Submissions received by Thursday afternoon (Europe time) are reviewed within the same week. Successful and unsuccessful candidates are notified every Friday. Applicants are advised not to submit sensitive information, such as passwords, through the application form. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the seeking organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.