ORF America Opens Applications for Technology Policy Fellow Position in Washington, D.C. – Apply By 15 May 2026
Observer Research Foundation America has announced applications for the position of Fellow, Technology Policy, offering experienced researchers and policy professionals an opportunity to contribute to global conversations on emerging technologies and international cooperation.
The full-time position is based in Washington, D.C., with an anticipated start date of 1 June. ORF America is seeking a highly qualified professional with expertise in technology policy, innovation, and international affairs to lead research initiatives and policy engagement activities focused on critical and emerging technologies.
The role presents a significant opportunity for professionals interested in shaping global technology governance, strengthening international policy collaboration, and advancing research on transformative technological developments affecting the international system.
About ORF America
Established in 2020, ORF America is an independent, non-partisan public policy institute headquartered in Washington, D.C. The institution serves as an overseas affiliate of Observer Research Foundation, one of India’s leading non-government think tanks.
ORF America focuses on producing research, analysis, and policy commentary on global affairs, particularly relations between developed and developing countries and cooperation between India and the Americas.
The organisation works across several major policy areas, including:
- Foreign policy and international security
- Technology policy and innovation governance
- Energy and climate policy
- Global economics and development
- Strategic affairs and sustainability
Through research publications, policy dialogues, leadership initiatives, and international events, ORF America convenes policymakers, academics, business leaders, and civil society stakeholders to address pressing global challenges.
About the Technology Policy Fellow Position
The Technology Policy Fellow will conduct advanced research on international technology policy related to critical and emerging technologies. The selected candidate will play a central role in shaping ORF America’s research agenda and policy engagement activities in this rapidly evolving field.
Areas of focus may include:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Quantum computing
- Biotechnology
- Automation and advanced manufacturing
- Space policy
- Defence technologies
- Emerging digital governance frameworks
The Fellow will work closely with the Executive Director and collaborate with colleagues across ORF centres in India, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.
This role is designed for professionals capable of combining rigorous research with policy engagement, strategic analysis, and international collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
The selected candidate will contribute to both research leadership and institutional development. Responsibilities include:
- Developing research and policy strategies related to technology governance
- Producing timely policy analyses, reports, and commentary
- Managing international policy dialogues and conferences
- Coordinating with global partners and research institutions
- Briefing stakeholders from government, academia, and the private sector
- Drafting research proposals and donor reports
- Supporting fundraising and institutional partnerships
- Supervising research programmes and research assistants
- Strengthening ORF America’s international policy networks
The Fellow will also engage with discussions involving the United States, India, and partner countries on emerging technology governance and international cooperation.
Qualifications and Eligibility Criteria
ORF America is seeking candidates with strong academic and professional backgrounds in technology policy, science and innovation policy, or related disciplines.
Preferred qualifications include:
- A Ph.D. in a related field, or
- A Master’s degree with at least five years of relevant professional experience
Applicants should also demonstrate:
- Strong analytical and research skills
- Experience conducting qualitative and quantitative research
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Experience working independently and within collaborative teams
- Attention to detail and organisational leadership skills
Additional language skills are considered an advantage but are not mandatory.
Work Eligibility and Location Requirements
Applicants must meet specific employment and residency requirements for the position.
Candidates should:
- Be eligible to work in the United States for more than two years
- Understand that ORF America does not sponsor employment visas
- Be willing to relocate to the Washington, D.C. area
- Be available for in-person work, as remote work arrangements will not be considered
The position offers direct engagement with policymakers, researchers, and international institutions in one of the world’s leading policy hubs.
Compensation and Benefits
ORF America offers a competitive salary package based on experience and qualifications.
The salary range for the Technology Policy Fellow position is:
- USD 100,000 – USD 120,000 annually
The benefits package includes:
- Medical, dental, and vision healthcare coverage
- 403(b) retirement plan
- Basic life insurance
- Short-term and long-term disability coverage
- Generous paid time off policy
The organisation also emphasises equal opportunity employment and welcomes applicants from diverse professional and academic backgrounds.
Application Process
Interested candidates are required to submit the following documents:
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- Cover letter
Applications should be submitted as a single PDF file via email to:
Applicants must include the subject line:
- “Job Application: Technology Policy”
ORF America has stated that only shortlisted candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.
Application Deadline
- Deadline: 15 May 2026
- Applications reviewed on a rolling basis
- Early applications are strongly encouraged
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs 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.
