Application Guide

How to Apply for Researcher, Worldview Investigations

at Rethink Priorities

🏢 About Rethink Priorities

Rethink Priorities is a nonprofit dedicated to identifying the most effective ways to improve the world, using rigorous research to guide major foundations and policymakers. Its focus on 'doing the most good' through evidence-based policy work makes it a unique and impactful organization for those passionate about effective altruism.

About This Role

As a Researcher on the Worldview Investigations team, you'll design and execute research projects—including surveys and quantitative analyses—to inform policy on wellbeing for people and animals. Your findings will directly shape decisions in emerging areas like existential risk and animal welfare, offering a tangible path to global impact.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing survey data in R, drafting a policy brief on animal welfare interventions, and meeting with teammates to refine research questions. You'll also review literature on emerging risks, write up findings for publication, and collaborate with policymakers to ensure your work has real-world impact.

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🎯 Who Rethink Priorities Is Looking For

  • Has hands-on experience designing and leading research projects, from conception to publication.
  • Possesses strong quantitative skills, including proficiency with statistical software (e.g., R, Python, Stata) and survey methodology.
  • Excels at writing clear, persuasive reports and communicating complex findings to non-specialist audiences.
  • Thrives in a collaborative, remote team environment and is committed to evidence-gathering for high-impact policy areas.

📝 Tips for Applying to Rethink Priorities

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific research projects you've led, including sample sizes, methods, and policy implications.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your past research experience to Rethink Priorities' mission—mention how your work could inform decisions on animal welfare or existential risk.

3

Provide a writing sample that demonstrates your ability to translate quantitative analysis into actionable policy recommendations.

4

If you have experience with survey design or polling, detail the tools and techniques you used (e.g., Qualtrics, weighting, margin of error).

5

Show enthusiasm for effective altruism and Rethink Priorities' worldview by referencing their published reports or blog posts in your application.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your direct experience designing and executing research projects, especially those with policy relevance.', 'Your proficiency in quantitative methods and survey tools, with specific examples of impact.', "Why you are drawn to Rethink Priorities' mission and how your values align with effective altruism.", 'Your ability to collaborate remotely and communicate findings to diverse stakeholders.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read Rethink Priorities' recent publications on animal welfare and existential risk to understand their research style and focus areas.
  • → Explore their blog and 'Worldview Investigations' series to grasp the team's methodological approaches and ongoing projects.
  • → Familiarize yourself with key concepts in effective altruism, such as cause prioritization and expected value reasoning.
  • → Look into the backgrounds of current researchers on the team to see what skills and experiences are valued.
Visit Rethink Priorities's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a research project you designed from scratch—how did you choose the methodology, handle data limitations, and ensure validity?
2 How would you approach a survey on public attitudes toward animal welfare policies? Walk us through your design process.
3 How do you prioritize research questions when there are many potential high-impact areas?
4 Tell us about a time you had to communicate complex quantitative findings to a non-technical audience. What strategies did you use?
5 How do you stay updated on emerging policy areas like existential risk and global priorities research?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention Rethink Priorities' specific mission or worldview investigations.
  • Overlooking the need to demonstrate quantitative skills—provide concrete examples of data analysis in your application.
  • Failing to show awareness of the nonprofit's focus on 'doing the most good' and how your research aligns with that goal.

📅 Application Timeline

⏰ Deadline: June 12, 2026

We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

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 Rethink Priorities!

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