GPPi Seeks Research Assistant for Project on Critical and Emerging Technologies

The Global Public Policy Institute (GPPi), an independent non-profit think tank, seeks a full-time research assistant to work at the intersection of our work on Peace and Security, Global Order, and Data and Tech Politics. The role is particularly well-suited for a recent graduate (bachelor’s degree) with initial internship or work experience. 

This role will focus on a project that seeks to advance Germany’s and Europe’s strategic perspectives on critical and emerging technologies (CET), including the issue of restrictions vis-à-vis China. The project will comprise research and analysis on cutting-edge technologies with implications for international security (in areas such as advanced semiconductors, quantum computing, or biotechnology), contributions to the public debate on these issues, and convening dialogues among stakeholders in government, industry, and research within Germany and Europe as well as across the Atlantic.

We are looking for an entrepreneurial and intellectually curious individual with a passion for the interplay of technology and global politics. Our new colleague will be involved in all aspects of the project, from data collection and analysis as well as drafting written outputs (in English and German), to the hands-on organization of project-related events. This role will involve numerous external stakeholder interactions at varying levels of seniority. Like all GPPi staff members, the successful candidate will also be expected to perform related administrative duties and contribute to operational tasks within the institute.

We offer a fixed-term contract until December 2025, with the possibility of extension. The position will be based at GPPi’s Berlin office. While limited periods of remote work from outside Berlin are possible, we expect the successful candidate to be based in or relocate to Berlin.

The successful candidate will have:

  • A bachelor’s degree (successfully completed by the starting date). Your drive to work on the topics at the heart of this project and demonstrated ability to further educate yourself on complex issues are more important to us than the name of the university you attended and the discipline in which you obtained your degree. While most GPPi colleagues have backgrounds in political science, international relations, and related fields, for this position we also encourage applications from candidates with engineering or science degrees.
  • A keen interest in the intersection of international security and technology. Demonstrated familiarity with the debates around ​“de-risking”, critical and emerging technologies, and economic security and statecraft as well as the relevant bi‑, mini- and multilateral fora will be considered a strong plus.
  • Excellent analytical skills and an interest in applying them to real-world policy issues. Initial internship or work experience (up to one year after completion of your bachelor’s degree, if applicable) in relevant organizations is a plus. 
  • Excellent spoken and written command of English and German (contrary to most GPPi positions, the latter is essential for this role – non-native speakers are expected to demonstrate proficiency at level C1 or C2 of the CEFR). Knowledge of further languages such as French or Mandarin is an asset.
  • Strong time management skills and the ability to handle several tasks independently and in parallel.
  • The ability to conduct research and project work with guidance and support of the project manager (with progressively greater independence over time) and a willingness to work as part of a mutually supportive project team.

Starting date: No later than September 1, 2024. An earlier start would be possible but is not an assessment criterion. 

Additional information:

GPPi offers a dynamic, collaborative work environment in the center of Germany’s capital and an international team working in a strong global network. Notwithstanding the specific language requirements for this role, our working language is English. We encourage applications from anywhere in the world and will support the right candidate with the relevant visa and work permit procedures.

  • Remuneration for this position depend on qualifications and experience as determined by our framework of salary brackets applied across the institute. 
  • GPPi strives to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for colleagues of all backgrounds. We welcome and encourage applications from interested individuals regardless of age, sex, gender identity, disability status, sexual orientation, race, religion, or belief.
  • We also know that there are great candidates who will not fit all criteria we have described above, or who have important skills that we have not mentioned. If that is you, please do not hesitate to apply and tell us about yourself.

How to apply:

To apply, please send a single PDF document with your CV (no Europass and no pictures, please), a brief letter of interest (tell us about your thematic interests and what you hope to bring to this role), informal transcripts of your academic courses and grades, and two writing samples to applications@​gppi.​net. For the writing samples, please use existing pieces not exceeding 3000 words each – feel free to use excerpts, e.g., from your bachelor’s thesis, and to submit one piece significantly shorter than this limit. Please choose your samples with a view to demonstrating your suitability for the specific role and thematic focus outlined above.

Please make sure to clearly state​“Research Assistant, CET” in the subject line.

Closing date for applications: We will start reviewing applications on May 6 and continue to do so on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged. You can expect a confirmation that we have received your application within a few working days. After that, or if you have questions about the formal requirements for the position, you are welcome to inquire via email to applications@​gppi.​net. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview via video conference.

Please do not call with questions or to inquire about the status of your application, and please do not submit paper applications.