In a recent announcement, the Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP) is opening up applications for an Associate Fellow/Research Associate within its Foreign Policy and Security Studiesvertical. This position, to be based in New Delhi, is tailor-made for individuals with a background in policy and research who have in-depth knowledge of Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, and who want to contribute to policy-relevant research on India’s engagements within the region. The role would appeal to researchers interested in foreign policy, climate diplomacy, energy transition, and strategic affairs, and involves working closely with both policymakers, international stakeholders and the academia.
About the Post
CSEP is looking for an enthusiastic researcher who can independently manage research initiatives concerning India’s relations with Indonesia and the larger Southeast Asian region. Familiarity with areas such as climate change, clean energy policy, crucial mineral resource supply chains, green trade policy, and clean energy transition will be of added value.
The candidate selected for this role will lead high-quality policy-oriented research, fostering cross-regional collaboration and producing impactful results that influence policy discourse within India and globally.
Job Role Responsibilities
Successful applicants will lead research projects focusing on the strategic and economic engagement between India and Southeast Asian countries, with a specific emphasis on Indonesia. Responsibilities include developing high-quality policy briefs, scholarly journal articles, working papers, opinion articles for diverse audiences of the academic and policy communities. The position will involve establishing partnerships with academic institutions, think-tanks, and governmental bodies across Southeast Asia.
The selected candidate will be tasked with representing CSEP at international conferences and workshops, mentor junior researchers, and engage with policymakers, diplomats, multilateral organisations etc.
Additionally, tracking political, economic, and security trends throughout the region and analyzing their implications for Indian policy will be part of the role.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates are required to possess a PhD in International Relations,PoliticalScience,SoutheastAsianStudies or an equivalent field of study. Individuals who have earned a Master’s degree in a related field and have approximately four to five years of experience in relevant research will also be considered.
Proficiency in Southeast Asian affairs, particularly regarding Indonesia’s political economy, international policy, and its relationship with India and ASEAN, is strongly preferred. Having experience in climate policy, renewable energy solutions, energy security, key minerals, or green trade agreements is considered an advantage.
Proficiency in Bahasa Indonesia or another Southeast Asian language would be an excellent qualification. A demonstrated history of publication, a strong command of research methodologies and effective communication abilities, and good knowledge of Indian engagement with ASEAN and broader Indo-Pacific are desirable qualifications.
Compensation and Work Culture
CSEP provides a competitive remuneration package commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and experience, inclusive of benefits. Researchers will benefit from an inspiring and stimulating working environment, collaborating with renowned policymakers, business leaders, and academia from India and globally.
About CSEP
The Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP) is an independent, non-partisan public policy think tank based out of New Delhi. It undertakes rigorous research on a broad spectrum of public policy areas and actively partners with government agencies, academic circles, industry representatives, and global organizations to champion data-informed policymaking.
Application Process
Applications must include a cover letter of approximately 400 words, a resume no longer than two pages, and one sample of the applicant’s single-authored written work. The complete application should be submitted as a single PDF file of no more than 1 MB in size. Previous publications should be linked within the resume where applicable.
The deadline for applying for this position is July 31, 2026.
Interested applicants can apply using the official online form available at the following link:
Application Link:https://forms.gle/2tNWYBMjoaMz1QCH9
What This Job Offers
This is a significant opportunity for anyone working in international relations, foreign policy, climate diplomacy, or Southeast Asia studies, providing valuable experience with a top public policy institution in India. The role offers extensive exposure to high-level policy research, international engagement, and direct interaction with government bodies and thought leaders.
SEO Title: CSEP Hiring Associate Fellow/Research Associate (Foreign Policy & Security Studies) – Apply by 31 July 2026
Meta Description: The Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP), New Delhi, invites applications for the role of Associate Fellow/Research Associate under its Foreign Policy and Security Studies vertical. The last date to apply is 31 July 2026.
