Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow, Economic Security Program

Join the Economic Security Program with the United States Studies Centre – Work on cutting edge policy challenges at the intersection of national security and business

Economic security has become the defining challenge of our era for governments and business around the world. The USSC Economic Security program is the first of its kind for an Australian think tank or academic institution, making it unique in Australia and highly sought after for policy advice and insight by government and business. The program output focuses on trade and tariffs, industrial policy, supply chains, critical minerals, energy, and public-private partnerships. These are cross-cutting challenges requiring deep analysis and complex policy solutions.

The United States Studies Centre is one of Australia's most influential and dynamic think tanks. With exceptional convening power, the USSC works closely with the Australian, US and regional governments and business and is solutions-oriented in its approach. To meet the demand for economic security expertise, we are in an exciting growth phase, powered by an award-winning culture, a high-performing team, and commanding the highest share of voice within the media among Australian think tanks. The USSC's work is widely read and highly impactful. As part of this exciting journey, we are looking for a Research Fellow or Senior Research Fellow to join our Economic Security program. You'll play a pivotal part in harnessing our capabilities to help us increase our long-term impact.

About the Role

The Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow in the Economic Security Program will play a key role in advancing the Centre's mission by delivering high-quality research, policy engagement, and thought leadership. The role will involve periodic overseas travel and active participation in high-level briefings, requiring strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills. This role reports to the Director of Economic Security and will coordinate with the CEO and directors of Research, Strategic Technologies, and Foreign Policy and Defence. The position is in Sydney but could be Canberra-based. The Centre is open to part-time arrangements with more experienced candidates.

Key responsibilities include:

• Conduct research and publishing on relevant topics
• Organise bespoke policy workshops
• Craft public messaging for media engagements
• Contribute to broader Centre initiatives and conferences
• Prepare research grant proposals
• Periodic overseas travel; and
• Participation in government and corporate briefings.

About you

• PhD and/or demonstrated research and writing skills at the intersection of economics and national security (including topics such as supply chains, trade policy, technology competition, export controls, etc.)
• 5+ years experience with policymaking or policy analysis in Australia
• Experience working with the United States, Japan and other regional partners
• Demonstrated program management and organisational skills
• A team-oriented ethos

Why Join Us?In addition to your 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
• 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 counselling through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) service
• Breastfeeding rooms, with several childcare centres near the University
• 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. The Centre won awards for Best Workplace and Culture Change.

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia

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

If you have any questions about the role or would like to request a copy of Position Description, please send an email to

Applications close: 11.59pm, 29th October