Policy Fellow – AI Initiative - DC or London

The Center for Global Development (CGD) is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit policy research organization in Washington, DC and London, UK that focuses on the issues and institutions that are critical to inclusive development. Through rigorous empirical research and active engagement with the global policy community, we focus on the policy intersections of low- and middle-income countries and the governments, institutions, and corporations that can be partners in delivering greater progress.

The Center is seeking a Policy Fellow, located in Washington, DC or London, to help build a new Artificial Intelligence Initiative. CGD's AI Initiative works to ensure AI's potential delivers for the world's poor. We are focused on three domains related to AI: (1) Effectiveness — distinguishing credible AI solutions from hype through evidence-based frameworks for evaluation, procurement, and scaling decisions; (2) Access — extending AI's benefits to underserved LMIC populations despite gaps in connectivity, devices, and language support; and (3) Transformation — preparing LMICs for a world where AI can perform most economically valuable digital tasks, and the policies, infrastructure, and institutions needed to navigate that shift.

We aim to leverage CGD’s influence on donor institutions and other high-level decision-makers, positioning ourselves both as a go-to resource for learning and a level of accountability, guiding global leaders towards evidence-based policies and investments that improve development outcomes for people in LMICs. The Policy Fellow will define and undertake an agenda of policy analysis and outreach focused on issues of high importance to the global development community, with a focus on AI. The Policy Fellow should be expert in current issues surrounding AI, and should be familiar with the current international institutions and forums central to AI policy discussions.

This is a full-time position based in Washington, D.C or London.

The Policy Fellow’s principal responsibilities will include

Collaboratively setting the intellectual vision and research and policy agenda for the team

Conducting research and policy analysis in areas of expertise, including but not limited to AI specific evaluation methods (evaluation of AI interventions and AI for evaluation), emerging technologies, and development effectiveness.

Ensuring that research and policy analysis are translated into concrete actions and impact by establishing collaborative relationships with policymakers, development agencies, donors, and international financial institutions

Engaging in related policy outreach activities, including speaking engagements, representing the organization at a prominent level in meetings, conferences, presentations, expert group consultations, working groups, technical communities, and other forums; and publishing blogs, papers, policy briefs, and/or short commentaries geared towards policymakers, academics, and CGD’s public audience

Organizing and facilitating private meetings and public events in areas of expertise

Mobilizing financial resources and support for the program and its staff in close coordination and cooperation with fundraising staff and CGD leadership

Supervising mid-level and junior staff and being accountable for their performance management and development

Overseeing planning, budgeting, execution, methods, and staff to achieve the program’s goals

Engaging with and contributing to the institution’s wider initiatives around diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as playing a key part in creating a culture which aligns with our mission and values

Integrating activities within the program and across the organization

Developing and supporting solutions to complex problems requiring a high degree of ingenuity, creativity, engagement, and innovation

The successful candidate possesses the following qualifications

• PhD or Master's in economics, international development, public policy, technology policy, computer science, or a closely related discipline, with substantive work on development issues.
• 12 or more years of policy experience.
• Publication and impact record – Demonstrated ability to produce rigorous research (peer-reviewed articles, working papers, or flagship policy reports) that has influenced or aimed to influence development policy debates.
• Exceptional communication skills – Proven aptitude for distilling complex analytics into concise, persuasive writing and presentations for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Field & stakeholder experience – Prior collaboration with LMIC governments, multilaterals, or NGOs; familiarity with research ethics, data-protection regulations, and the practicalities of implementing evaluations in resource-constrained settings.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, as well as high level organizational skills
• Ability to work collaboratively within the multidisciplinary team while remaining individually accountable for delivering on policy outreach
• Demonstrated leadership and management skills. Ability to coach junior staff such as research assistants.
• Closing date: Monday, Nov 2nd at 11:59 PM ET
• Interested candidates should submit a Resume.
• This is a full-time position based in DC or London.

Salary Ranges

US

$130,000 - $150,000. Pay commensurate with education, skillset, and experience.

CGD offers a work environment that is collegial, rewarding, and rich with opportunities for intellectual and professional growth. The compensation package includes generous paid time off, a robust medical, vision and dental benefits with a modest employee contribution, employer retirement contribution, commuter benefits, and much more. Read about CGD's benefits package here.

The organization is working hybrid with all staff required to be in the office at least three days per week. CGD is registered to employ staff living in DC, Maryland, or Virginia. Candidates must be able to live and work in one of these locations to be considered.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document upon hire. GD will sponsor United States work authorization for this position. Any offer of employment requiring sponsored work authorization is contingent on CGD and the candidate’s ability to successfully petition for and secure the necessary work visa(s).

London

£80,325-£95,812 per annum plus excellent benefits. Starting salary will be based on experience.

Candidates who wish to be based in the UK should have the right to live and work in the UK. Any offer of employment requiring work sponsorship is contingent on CGD and the candidate’s ability to successfully obtain the necessary work visa.

It is the expectation that the successful candidate will be within commutable distance to the offices based in SW1. The successful candidate will need to be in the office a minimum of three days a week.

CGD/E is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and celebrates fostering a collaborative, diverse, and inclusive work environment. All persons will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, parental status, veteran status, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age or sexual orientation.