Application Guide

How to Apply for Researcher, European energy and climate policies

at French Institute of International Relations (IFRI)

🏢 About French Institute of International Relations (IFRI)

The French Institute of International Relations (IFRI) is a leading independent French think tank focused on international affairs, known for its influential research on European and global policy issues. Working at IFRI offers the opportunity to contribute to high-level policy debates and engage with international stakeholders, all while enjoying the flexibility of a remote position.

About This Role

As a Researcher on European energy and climate policies, you will analyze and produce research on EU energy strategies, climate regulations, and their geopolitical implications. This role is impactful because it directly informs policymakers and stakeholders on critical issues shaping Europe's energy transition and international relations.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day involves analyzing recent EU policy developments, drafting research notes or reports, and participating in virtual meetings with IFRI colleagues or external experts. You might also review energy/climate literature, prepare for upcoming webinars or publications, and collaborate remotely on cross-institutional projects.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who French Institute of International Relations (IFRI) Is Looking For

  • Holds an advanced degree in political science, international relations, energy policy, or environmental studies with a focus on Europe
  • Has demonstrable research experience in EU energy/climate policies, possibly through previous roles, publications, or academic work
  • Possesses strong analytical skills and fluency in English, with French language proficiency being a significant asset for engaging with IFRI's francophone network
  • Is adept at working independently in a remote setting while collaborating with international teams and stakeholders

📝 Tips for Applying to French Institute of International Relations (IFRI)

1

Tailor your CV to highlight specific research projects or publications related to EU energy/climate policy, even if from academic or non-professional settings

2

Demonstrate familiarity with IFRI's recent publications or events (e.g., their conference with U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright) by referencing them in your application

3

Emphasize any experience with policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, or writing for policy audiences, as IFRI values real-world impact

4

If applicable, note any French language skills or experience working in Franco-European contexts, as this aligns with IFRI's positioning

5

Provide concrete examples of how you've managed remote research projects or collaborations, given the role's remote nature

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Explain your specific interest in EU energy and climate policies, linking it to current debates (e.g., the EU Green Deal, energy security, or transatlantic relations)', "Highlight how your research background aligns with IFRI's mission of informing policy and public debate, citing a relevant IFRI publication or event if possible", 'Describe your ability to work independently and produce high-quality analysis in a remote setting, with examples of past remote or self-directed work']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review IFRI's recent publications on energy and climate topics to understand their research focus and style
  • → Explore IFRI's events and conferences, such as the 2026 conference with U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, to grasp their stakeholder engagements
  • → Study the institute's organizational structure and key researchers in energy/climate to identify potential alignments or collaboration opportunities
  • → Understand IFRI's role as a French think tank with European and global reach, noting how it bridges French, EU, and international perspectives

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Discuss your analysis of a current EU energy or climate policy challenge (e.g., the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism or renewable energy targets)
2 Explain how you would design a research project on a topic like EU-U.S. energy relations post-2026, referencing IFRI's recent event with Chris Wright
3 Describe your experience with policy-oriented writing and how you tailor research for different audiences (academic, policymakers, public)
4 Share how you manage remote collaboration and maintain productivity in a research role without in-office supervision
5 Discuss your familiarity with French or European policy networks and how you'd engage them to enhance IFRI's research impact
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application without mentioning IFRI, EU energy/climate policies, or remote work experience
  • Overemphasizing theoretical academic research without showing how it applies to policy debates or real-world impact
  • Failing to demonstrate knowledge of current EU energy/climate issues or IFRI's work, which may suggest lack of genuine interest

📅 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

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to French Institute of International Relations (IFRI)!

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