Carnegie Endowment Seeks Nonresident Scholar for U.S.–West Africa Relations – (Deadline: 29 August, 2025)

Join the Carnegie Africa Program as a Nonresident Scholar on U.S.–West Africa Relations

The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace is currently seeking applications for a Nonresident Scholar position focused on U.S. relations with the Sahel and francophone West Africa. This is a unique, part-time opportunity to collaborate with a globally recognized think tank, contribute to high-quality analysis, and engage in impactful dialogue on international policy and development. The position is affiliated with the Carnegie Africa Program, based in Washington, D.C., and offers a monthly stipend to the selected candidate.

About the Carnegie Africa Program

The Carnegie Africa Program addresses key economic, political, and transnational challenges shaping Africa’s future. Through evidence-based research, convening high-level dialogues, and amplifying African expertise, the program works to shape a more informed and balanced global narrative around the continent’s trajectory.

Africa is the youngest and fastest-growing continent, with a projected population of 2.5 billion by 2050. Despite impressive economic growth in several regions, the continent still grapples with complex realities such as resource inequality, political volatility, and uneven global engagement. At the same time, global policy discussions often oscillate between unrealistic optimism and unhelpful pessimism about Africa’s prospects.

In this context, the Carnegie Africa Program aims to inform more accurate and constructive global policymaking, with a particular focus on Africa’s evolving partnerships, economic systems, and governance structures.

Role Description: Nonresident Scholar on U.S.–West Africa Relations

The Nonresident Scholar will collaborate with the Carnegie Africa Program to:

• Monitor and analyze U.S. economic and development engagement in West Africa, with a particular focus on the Sahel region and francophone countries.
• Conduct in-depth research and policy analysis on external relations between West African states and both state and non-state actors globally, including governments, philanthropic organizations, and international financial institutions.
• Produce insightful, policy-relevant publications such as research papers, op-eds, and policy briefs.
• Participate in public and private dialogues related to U.S.–Africa relations, especially on issues such as:
  • Trade and investment
  • Digital technologies
  • Energy transition
  • Economic development
  • Security and diplomacy
• Make selective media appearances to amplify research findings or contribute to expert panels.
• Engage stakeholders from the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and West Africa to shape evidence-based policy recommendations.

Candidate Qualifications

To be eligible for this position, candidates must demonstrate the following:

• Professional Experience
  Significant experience in government, academia, the private sector, or nonprofit work related to:
  • Economic development
  • Political economy
  • International economic relations of West Africa and the Sahel
• Regional Expertise
  In-depth knowledge of the economics and politics of at least two West African countries, with a strong preference for candidates who:
  • Currently reside in the region, or
  • Have substantial on-the-ground experience in a West African country
• Educational Background
  A completed advanced degree is required. This may include a Master’s, MBA, Ph.D., or an equivalent graduate qualification.
• Language Proficiency
  Demonstrated fluency in both English and French, including excellent writing and oral communication skills
• Publication Record
  A proven track record of policy-relevant publications, such as:
  • Opinion editorials (op-eds)
  • Research papers
  • Policy briefs

Application Instructions

Interested candidates must submit:

• A current CV
• A two-page statement of interest explaining their qualifications, motivation, and potential contributions to the Carnegie Africa Program

Send applications to: AfricaProgram@ceip.org
Email Subject: Nonresident Scholar on U.S.–West Africa Relations
Deadline: August 29, 2025

Additional Notes

• This is not a full-time salaried role.
• The Nonresident Scholar will be affiliated with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and will receive a monthly stipend.
• The position is remote, though the scholar may be invited to participate in in-person events or dialogues as needed.

Why This Role Matters

This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to one of the world’s most respected international policy institutions, engage in real-time policy challenges, and help elevate African perspectives in global discourse. The Nonresident Scholar will join a community of thought leaders working at the intersection of governance, economics, diplomacy, and international development.

By shaping discussions around U.S.–West Africa relations, the scholar will contribute to influencing U.S. policy in a way that better reflects the complexities, opportunities, and aspirations of the region.

For more about the Carnegie Africa Program, visit: https://carnegieendowment.org
Apply by August 29, 2025