Research Fellow

• Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow, Economic Security Program 

• Salary $115,000 to $145,000 exclusive of super (determined based on experience) 

• Work on cutting edge policy challenges at the intersection of national security and business 

• Applications close: Friday 4 September 2026  

Join the Economic Security Program with the United States Studies Centre  

Economic security has become the defining challenge of our era for governments and business around the world. The USSC Economic Security program is the first of its kind for an Australian think tank or academic institution, making it unique in Australia and highly sought after for policy advice and insight by government and business. The program output focuses on trade and tariffs, industrial policy, supply chains, critical minerals, energy, and public-private partnerships. These are cross-cutting challenges requiring deep analysis and complex policy solutions.  

The United States Studies Centre (USSC) is one of Australia’s most influential and dynamic think tanks. With exceptional convening power, USSC works closely with the Australian, US and regional governments and business and is solutions-oriented in its approach. To meet the demand for economic security expertise, we’re in an exciting growth phase, powered by an award-winning culture, a high-performing team, and commanding the highest share of voice within the media among Australian think tanks. USSC’s work is widely read and highly impactful. As part of this journey, we’re looking for a Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow to join our Economic Security program. You’ll play a pivotal part in harnessing our capabilities to help us increase our long-term impact. 

About the Role 

As a Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow in the Economic Security Program you will play a key role in advancing the Centre’s mission by delivering high-quality research, policy engagement, and thought leadership. The role will involve periodic overseas travel and active participation in high-level briefings, requiring strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills. You will report to the Director of Economic Security and coordinate with the CEO and directors of Research, Strategic Technologies, and Foreign Policy and Defence.  

The position is in Sydney but could be Canberra-based. The Centre is open to part-time arrangements for highly experienced candidates. You will work with a passionate and inclusive team, within a collaborative culture where your professional development will be strongly supported. 

Your key responsibilities include: 

• conducting research and publishing on relevant topics 

• organising bespoke policy workshops 

• crafting public messaging for media engagements 

• contributing to broader Centre initiatives and conferences 

• preparing research grant proposals 

• periodic overseas travel; and  

• participation in government and corporate briefings. 

About you 

• PhD and/or demonstrated research and writing skills at the intersection of economics and national security (including topics such as supply chains, trade policy, technology competition, export controls, etc.) 

• 5+ years experience with policymaking or policy analysis 

• Experience working with the Australian, US, Japanese or other regional governments and private sectors; experience working with international economic institutions such as the World Trade Organization or International Monetary Fund also considered  

• Demonstrated program management and organisational skills 

• A can-do, team-oriented ethos 

Why Join Us? 
In addition to the employee’s salary and superannuation, the Centre provides a range of benefits including: 

• Family-friendly working hours and flexible working arrangements that let you balance your work and personal responsibilities 

• Generous leave entitlements, including annual leave, sick leave, carers leave, long service leave, family violence leave and paid parental leave 

• Breastfeeding rooms and a breastfeeding policy, with several childcare centres near the University 

• Professional development allowance, plus a range of training and development opportunities provided by the University  

• Salary packaging for motor vehicles, laptops and superannuation 

• Staff discounts on selected bank products and health insurance 

• UniSuper superannuation advice, seminars and financial advisers 

• Discounted rates to Uni sport and fitness centres 

• Free annual flu vaccinations 

• Free counselling through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) service 

• Discounted veterinary services for pets of staff 

• Free access to the University library 

About our Culture   

The Centre is committed to building a culture that fosters collaboration, career progression, diversity, inclusion, mental health and sustainability. We have a Social Responsibility Committee that organises regular events and training sessions and our Social Club meets monthly. The Centre won awards for Best Workplace and Culture Change.  

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia 

Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.  

How to apply 

Applications close: Friday 4 September 2026  

Start date: Available to start in either Sydney or Canberra between November 2026 – January 2027  

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Anh Hrincu, HR Manager USSC by email to anh.hrincu@sydney.edu.au.

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