Deadline: February 28, 2026
Are you a technologist passionate about the intersection of technology, foreign policy, and national security? The CFR Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship 2026-2027 offers a unique opportunity to explore this dynamic field through a prestigious 10-month residency at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR).
This fellowship is supported by the Eric and Wendy Schmidt Fund for Strategic Innovation and is designed to enable early- to mid-career technologists to engage in policy-oriented research and contribute to the understanding of emerging technologies shaping global affairs.
About the Fellowship
The CFR Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship 2026-2027 is a 10-month full-time programme hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). It provides a platform for professionals from the technology sector to conduct independent research, produce policy analysis, and engage with experts and policymakers in the fields of technology, foreign policy, and national security.
The fellowship combines practical experience with scholarly exploration, allowing the selected fellow to bridge the gap between technology innovation and policy development on the global stage.
Location and Duration
The fellowship typically takes place at CFR’s offices in New York or Washington, D.C., and runs for 10 months. Fellows are expected to work primarily in person, collaborating closely with CFR experts and policy leaders.
Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- A salary of approximately $136,500 for the duration of the fellowship.
- Full CFR employee benefits, including health insurance and other standard entitlements.
- Access to CFR’s research facilities and professional networks, offering unparalleled opportunities to interact with leaders in technology, policy, and academia.
- The platform to produce policy-oriented research, contribute to global discussions, and publish work that influences decision-making in technology and foreign affairs.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the CFR Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship 2026-2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be legally authorised to work in the United States (CFR does not sponsor work visas).
- Hold at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
- Be an early- or mid-career professional with a strong background in the technology sector.
- Demonstrate a keen interest in foreign policy, international relations, or national security.
- Preference will be given to candidates currently employed in the private technology sector or with relevant industry experience.
Application Requirements
Applicants will need to provide:
- Personal, educational, and professional background details.
- A comprehensive research proposal outlining a project focused on the intersection of emerging technology and U.S. foreign policy or national security.
- Two letters of support from professional or academic referees who can attest to the applicant’s expertise and potential.
Selection Process
The selection process is highly competitive — only one fellow is chosen each year. Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- The strength and relevance of their professional experience.
- The originality and quality of their proposed research.
- The fellowship’s potential to advance their professional goals and impact the broader policy and technology landscape.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the CFR Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship 2026-2027 is 28 February 2026. Early application is strongly encouraged due to the programme’s competitive nature.
Why You Should Apply
The CFR Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship 2026-2027 represents an exceptional opportunity to contribute meaningfully to global policy discussions while advancing your professional expertise. Fellows emerge from the programme equipped with new insights, a stronger professional network, and a deep understanding of how technology can shape the future of international relations.
Application Links
👉 Read more about the programme
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
