Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship

Technologists in residence will spend their time at CFR producing and contributing to the study of critical issues at the intersection of technology, foreign policy, and national security. They will also contribute to and participate in relevant CFR events and programming. Topics may include, but are not limited to, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum computing, and technology diplomacy. The fellowship is intended to be a transformational experience with the goal of promoting enduring professional networks and interdisciplinary knowledge-sharing among technologists and CFR experts and members, thereby deepening mutual understanding of how technology intersects with foreign policy and national security.

The fellowship runs for ten months, starting in September. The program pays a salary of $143,325 over ten months for full-time employment, along with relocation assistance, when relevant. A part time research associate will be allocated for research and administrative support. The technologist in residence will be a CFR employee and be eligible for CFR employment benefits, subject to provisions specified by contract, law, or policy.

The technologist in residence will be based in either CFR’s New York or Washington, DC, office. The fellowship is intended as an in-person experience; fellows should expect to work on-site at least four days per week, including Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays as anchor days.

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States
• Applicants must be mid-career professionals
• Preference will be given to either applicants with a degree in science and engineering OR at least a bachelor’s degree and proven expertise in a relevant technology field
• Demonstrated technology experience that goes beyond writing about technology or managing technology-inclusive projects. This may include hands-on experience designing, building, or deploying technical systems

The program does not fund pre- or postdoctoral research, work toward a degree, or the completion of projects on which substantial progress has been made before the fellowship begins.

The application window for the 2026–27 fellowship cycle is now closed. Interested candidates who meet the program’s eligibility requirements can apply online in the fall, for the 2027–28 fellowship cycle. Awardees will be notified by spring 2027.

To apply you will need to submit the following:

• Basic biographical, educational, and employment information
• Research proposal relating to the intersection of technology and U.S. foreign policy or national security, and impact on professional development
• A clear statement of how the fellowship would advance the applicant’s professional development and align with their broader goals
• Two letters of support

Selection for the technologist in residence is based on the following criteria:

• Professional experience in the technology sector
• A demonstrated interest in foreign policy
• Merits and feasibility of a proposal on some aspect of the connection between technology and U.S. foreign policy or national security
• The contribution the fellowship will make to the applicant’s career development

The selection process is highly competitive. A selection committee reviews all applicants. CFR awards one fellowship each year. Strong preference is given to candidates who have never received a CFR fellowship.

For more information, please contact [email protected]