• Multiple research positions, Economic Security program
• Options of full-time roles in Sydney and part-time role in Canberra
• 2-year fixed term contract with the possibility of continuing agreement
• Salary range $73-$110K exclusive of super (determined based on experience)

About the Centre

The United States Studies Centre (USSC), located at the University of Sydney, is an independent foreign policy research centre. The USSC provides balanced and objective analysis, evidence-based insights and tangible solutions to complex problems for policymakers, businesses, students and the public. Our vision to shape policy, debate and ideas by deepening Australians' understanding of, and strengthening Australia's relationship with, the United States. Click here to learn more about the United States Studies Centre's mission.

About the opportunity

Economics and security are colliding more now than at any time in the post-war era. The use of economic tools like tariffs, industrial policy, export controls and supply chain dominance for geopolitical advantage is creating complex trade-offs for policy makers and the private sector alike. How Australia, the US and their partners can navigate global economic fragmentation is the primary challenge of the coming decades.

The Economic Security Program at USSC is at the centre of addressing these complex policy challenges. Unique within the Australian think tank landscape, the Economic Security Program has a growing domestic and international profile. Its work is in increasing demand from the Australian Government, private sector, and international partners seeking solutions for cross-cutting policy and business challenges.

The Economic Security program is recruiting multiple research roles: Full time Research Fellow and Full time Research Associate (Sydney location); and 0.4 FTE Research Associate (Sydney or Canberra location). The Research Fellow and Research Associate will assist the Program Director and the 0.4 FTE Research Associate will assist the Senior Economics Adviser. These roles will support all aspects of the program including research projects, conducting policy outreach and delivering administrative support.

The successful applicants will work at the intersection of some of today's most visible and vexing policy challenges, at a pivotal moment in the Australia-US alliance, at one of Australia's leading think tanks.

The Research Fellow and Research Associates will work across several of the following priority areas:

• Trade policy including tariffs, export controls and investment screening
• Industrial policy in the US, Australia and elsewhere
• Supply chain security, particularly critical minerals and energy
• Geopolitics associated with the clean energy transition
• Economic frameworks and groupings
• Regional investment and infrastructure
• Public-private partnerships to fund national security

Responsibilities differ between the Research Fellow and Research Associate roles, as below:

Research Fellow

• Authoring research reports, briefs and analysis on economic security related topics (as outlined in the priority areas);
• Presenting at events, workshops, and conferences;
• Assisting with Economic Security program activity design and execution;
• Providing media interviews and speaking on podcasts;
• Delivering educational material to a range of audiences.

Research Fellow and Research Associates

• Providing research assistance and written work in support of program publications;
• Contributing to the delivery of Track 2.0 and 1.5 roundtables, conferences and other events;
• Grant writing and overseeing grant budget management;
• Supporting program engagement with US, Australian and regional government and non-government stakeholders;
• Data analysis and visualisation for presentations;
• Media monitoring and overseeing updates to Economic Security content on the USSC website;
• Assisting with database management, editing, reporting and other administrative tasks;
• Inputting empirical and data work when required.

The positions available provide a unique opportunity for mid and early career researchers and/or international affairs professionals to develop their applied research, project management, and outreach skills as part of a dynamic team; and to deepen subject matter expertise in the United States, Australia, and their allies and partners.

Applicants should also possess a relevant degree (preferably Bachelor's or Honours) and related work experience. Preference will be given to applicants who can independently manage administrative and research tasks; have strong research, writing and communication skills; and have two or more years of experience in research, think tanks, government or other related roles.

Click here for the Research Fellow Position Description

Click here for the Research Associate Position Description

Benefits of working with us

In addition to the employee's salary and superannuation, the Centre provides a range of benefits including:

• Family-friendly working hours and flexible working arrangements that let you balance your work and personal responsibilities
• Generous leave entitlements, including annual leave, sick leave, carers leave, long service leave, family violence leave and paid parental leave
• Breastfeeding rooms and a breastfeeding policy, with several childcare centres near the University
• Professional development allowance, plus a range of training and development opportunities provided by the University
• Salary packaging for motor vehicles, laptops and superannuation
• Staff discounts on selected bank products and health insurance
• UniSuper superannuation advice, seminars and financial advisers
• Discounted rates to Uni sport and fitness centres
• Free annual flu vaccinations
• Free counselling through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) service
• Discounted veterinary services for pets of staff
• Free access to the University library.

About our Culture

The Centre is committed to building a culture that fosters collaboration, career progression, diversity, inclusion, mental health and sustainability. We have a Social Responsibility Committee that organises regular events and training sessions and our Social Club meets monthly.

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia

Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

How to apply

• Cover letter (max. 1-page) (indicate whether you are applying for the Research Fellow or Research Associate role and full time or part time)
• CV or resumé (max. 3-pages)
• Contact details for two referees
• Writing sample (max. 8-pages)