Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Policy Advisor - Emerging Technology and Geopolitics

at Tony Blair Institute for Global Change

๐Ÿข About Tony Blair Institute for Global Change

The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change is unique for its direct engagement with governments worldwide to implement practical solutions to global challenges, blending political strategy with policy expertise. Working here offers the opportunity to influence real-world policy at the highest levels, particularly in shaping how technology intersects with international relations and governance.

About This Role

As a Senior Policy Advisor focusing on Emerging Technology and Geopolitics, you'll analyze how technologies like AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology reshape global power dynamics and advise governments on strategic responses. This role is impactful because it directly informs policy decisions that could determine competitive advantages and ethical frameworks in the coming decades.

๐Ÿ’ก A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing recent developments in semiconductor export controls, drafting a briefing note for a European government client on strategic implications, and participating in a workshop with international experts to refine policy recommendations on biotechnology governance. You'll balance deep research with stakeholder engagement to ensure analysis translates to actionable advice.

๐ŸŽฏ Who Tony Blair Institute for Global Change Is Looking For

  • Has 5+ years of experience in technology policy, international relations, or geopolitical analysis, preferably with exposure to government advisory work
  • Demonstrates deep understanding of at least one emerging technology domain (e.g., AI governance, cybersecurity, space tech) and its geopolitical implications
  • Possesses strong analytical skills to translate complex technological trends into actionable policy recommendations for diverse international contexts
  • Shows proven ability to engage with senior stakeholders and communicate technical concepts to non-technical decision-makers

๐Ÿ“ Tips for Applying to Tony Blair Institute for Global Change

1

Highlight specific examples where you've analyzed technology's geopolitical impactโ€”mention concrete technologies and regions/countries affected

2

Emphasize any direct experience advising governments or international organizations, as TBI works closely with political leaders

3

Tailor your resume to show how your background bridges technology analysis and policy formulationโ€”avoid purely technical or purely political profiles

4

Reference TBI's recent publications on technology governance to demonstrate you understand their specific approach and priorities

5

If you have international experience, specify how it informs your understanding of different regulatory environments and geopolitical perspectives

โœ‰๏ธ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your ability to connect emerging technologies to specific geopolitical challenges (e.g., AI and US-China competition, quantum computing and encryption standards)', 'Experience in developing practical, implementable policy recommendations rather than just theoretical analysis', 'Understanding of how to work within government constraints and timelines to achieve policy impact', "Alignment with TBI's mission of delivering tangible change through government partnerships"]

Generate Cover Letter โ†’

๐Ÿ” Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • โ†’ TBI's recent reports on technology governance (particularly their work on AI and global governance frameworks)
  • โ†’ Tony Blair's public statements on technology and geopolitics to understand organizational priorities
  • โ†’ The Institute's government partnerships and projects in specific regions relevant to your expertise
  • โ†’ How TBI differs from think tanks in its practical, implementation-focused approach to policy change

๐Ÿ’ฌ Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you advise a government on developing a national AI strategy that balances innovation, security, and ethical considerations?
2 What emerging technology do you believe will have the greatest geopolitical impact in the next 5 years, and why?
3 Describe a time you had to translate complex technical information for policymakers with limited technical background
4 How do you stay current with both technological developments and shifting geopolitical dynamics simultaneously?
5 What metrics would you use to measure the success of technology policy recommendations in an international context?
Practice Interview Questions โ†’

โš ๏ธ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Focusing too much on theoretical academic perspectives without demonstrating practical policy application
  • Treating technology and geopolitics as separate domains rather than showing their interconnectedness
  • Using generic technology policy language without tailoring to TBI's government-facing, implementation-focused model

๐Ÿ“… 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

โœ“

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Tony Blair Institute for Global Change!