Application Guide

How to Apply for Research Scholar, South Asia Program

at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

🏢 About Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace is unique as a globally recognized think tank that maintains strict nonpartisanship while directly influencing international policy through evidence-based research. Working here offers unparalleled access to policymakers, diplomats, and academic networks, with a century-long reputation for intellectual independence and impact on global peace initiatives.

About This Role

As a Research Scholar in the South Asia Program, you'll conduct independent research on the region's political, economic, and security dynamics, translating academic insights into actionable policy recommendations. This role is impactful because your analysis will directly inform policymakers, media, and stakeholders on critical South Asian issues, while contributing to Carnegie's intellectual community through publications and engagement activities.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve morning analysis of breaking South Asia news, followed by focused research/writing on a long-term project, then preparing for an afternoon briefing with policymakers or media interview. The role balances independent desk research with collaborative program meetings and external engagement activities.

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🎯 Who Carnegie Endowment for International Peace Is Looking For

  • Expertise in South Asian political, economic, or security issues with demonstrated research publications or policy analysis
  • Ability to produce both academic-quality research and accessible policy briefs for diverse audiences
  • Established network or experience engaging with policymakers, media, and regional stakeholders
  • Strong analytical skills with methodological rigor appropriate for independent research in a think tank environment

📝 Tips for Applying to Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

1

Highlight specific South Asia expertise (e.g., India-Pakistan relations, regional economic integration, security dynamics) with concrete examples of past research

2

Demonstrate understanding of Carnegie's nonpartisan approach by avoiding overt political affiliations in your application materials

3

Include links to published policy-relevant work or samples that show ability to bridge academic research and practical policy

4

Reference specific Carnegie South Asia Program publications or scholars to show genuine engagement with their work

5

Emphasize both independent research capability and collaborative contributions to program activities

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your specific research agenda on South Asia and how it aligns with Carnegie's current program priorities", 'Examples of translating complex research into policy-relevant outputs for diverse audiences', 'Demonstrated ability to engage with policymakers, media, or stakeholders in the South Asia context', 'How your background contributes to the intellectual community of a nonpartisan think tank']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Recent publications from the South Asia Program and how your research would complement them
  • → Carnegie's funding model and organizational structure as an independent think tank
  • → Current South Asia Program scholars' backgrounds and research trajectories
  • → Carnegie's policy engagement channels (congressional testimony, media appearances, private briefings)

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Your proposed research focus for the first year and its policy relevance to current South Asian dynamics
2 How you would approach making your research accessible to both academic and policy audiences
3 Experience engaging with policymakers or media on sensitive regional issues
4 Understanding of Carnegie's nonpartisan mission and how you'd maintain that in your work
5 Specific South Asian countries or issues where you have deepest expertise and methodological approach
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overly academic writing samples without policy relevance or accessible summaries
  • Demonstrating partisan political affiliations inconsistent with Carnegie's nonpartisan ethos
  • Vague research interests without specific South Asia focus or methodological clarity

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

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