Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Research Fellow ‘Security & Defence’

at Clingendael Institute

🏢 About Clingendael Institute

The Clingendael Institute is a leading Dutch think tank and academy focused on international relations, uniquely positioned at the intersection of research, training, and public debate. It operates as an independent institution that influences policy through evidence-based analysis, making it ideal for researchers who want their work to have real-world impact on security and defense policies in Europe and beyond.

About This Role

This Senior Research Fellow role focuses specifically on security and defense issues within the Security & Defence program, requiring both independent research and collaborative project development. You'll contribute to shaping European security policies through analysis, publications, and engagement with stakeholders, making this role impactful for those interested in influencing defense strategy in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing recent security developments, drafting sections of a policy brief on European defense capabilities, participating in virtual team meetings to coordinate research projects, and preparing for stakeholder consultations with Dutch ministry officials. You'll balance independent research with collaborative work, often switching between deep analysis and communication tasks to ensure research findings reach appropriate audiences.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Clingendael Institute Is Looking For

  • Has 5+ years of professional experience in security/defense research, preferably with publications in reputable journals or think tank reports
  • Demonstrates expertise in European security architecture, NATO developments, and defense capabilities analysis
  • Possesses strong project management skills to lead research initiatives from conception to publication
  • Shows fluency in English and preferably Dutch, with the ability to engage diverse audiences from policymakers to the public

📝 Tips for Applying to Clingendael Institute

1

Highlight specific experience with European security institutions (EU, NATO, national ministries) rather than general international relations background

2

Include concrete examples of research projects you've led or significantly contributed to, emphasizing policy relevance

3

Demonstrate familiarity with Clingendael's existing Security Unit publications by referencing specific reports in your application

4

Show how your research agenda aligns with current European security debates (e.g., EU Strategic Compass, NATO adaptation)

5

Emphasize remote collaboration experience since this is a remote position within a Dutch institution

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your specific research interests within European security and defense and how they complement Clingendael's existing work", 'Examples of policy-relevant research outputs that have influenced discussions or decisions', 'Experience working in multidisciplinary teams and engaging with diverse stakeholders', "How you would contribute to the Security & Defence program's objectives in your first year"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Recent publications from Clingendael's Security Unit, particularly the Security & Defence program
  • → The institute's role in Dutch foreign policy debates and its relationships with government ministries
  • → Clingendael's specific focus areas within European security (e.g., Strategic Foresight & Intelligence program)
  • → How the institute balances independent research with policy relevance and public engagement

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Your analysis of current challenges in European defense cooperation and specific policy recommendations
2 How you would design a research project on a pressing security issue for Dutch/European policymakers
3 Experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methods in security studies
4 Examples of successfully communicating complex security concepts to non-expert audiences
5 How you stay current with rapidly evolving security developments and incorporate them into research
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying with only academic/theoretical background without demonstrating policy relevance or stakeholder engagement
  • Generic applications that don't reference Clingendael's specific research focus or Dutch/European security context
  • Failing to show how your expertise complements the existing Security Unit team's capabilities

📅 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 Clingendael Institute!

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