Research Fellow (Early Career)

Resources For The Future Inc.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 133,000 - 166,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Flexible hours

Paid holidays

PTO 4 weeks

Job summary

Resources for the Future (RFF) seeks early-career, PhD-level researchers in economics or a related field who aim to influence policy audiences and environmental decisions from Washington, DC. The role focuses on analysis of environmental, natural resource, and energy policies—especially U.S.

economic policy issues like climate risks and resilience across sectors. The position is located in Washington and involves developing research projects, engaging with diverse policy audiences, and

Qualifications

• A PhD in economics or a closely related field within the past 5 years or on track to receive a PhD by August 2027
• We welcome applications from candidates with other graduate degrees (e.g., MA, JD, or PhDs less closely related to economics) who have 5–10 years of post-degree professional experience in environmental, natural resource, or energy policy research and engagement
• Outstanding oral and written communications skills
• Willingness to participate in public-facing events, write for non-academic policy audiences, and engage in fundraising activities

Responsibilities

• Conceive and manage research projects and produce original research suitable for publication in peer reviewed literature, policy publications, and RFF publications
• Provide analysis of policy issues and engage with decision makers and stakeholders
• Participate in public-facing events and write briefs, blogs, and short articles for non-academic audiences
• Contribute to fundraising efforts that reach government, foundation, corporate, individual, and other donors
• Participate in RFF institutional activities, including team meetings, staff presentations, and presentations to members of the RFF Board and President’s Council

Skills

Oral and written communications

Education

PhD in economics or related field

5–10 years post-degree experience

Job description

RFF’s mission is to improve environmental, energy, and natural resource decisions through impartial, evidence-based economic research and policy engagement. We are committed to being the most widely trusted source of research insights and policy solutions leading to a healthy environment and a thriving economy.

Our connections to policy audiences, team of economic and policy experts, and location in Washington DC provide a unique platform for research leaders who want to leverage their expertise into real-world change. Our experts bring the brightest thinking to bear on our future, while having shaped many of the world’s most successful environmental decisions and policies over the past 74 years.

Summary

Resources for the Future seeks early career, PhD-Level researchers in economics or a related field who have a strong desire to engage with policy audiences and make a lasting impact on environmental decisions. We seek candidates with expertise on the analysis of environmental, natural resource, and/or energy policies – particularly related to U.S. economic policy issues (for example, candidates with expertise in climate risks and resilience and/or the industrial, fuels, electricity, forestry, and agricultural sectors).

This role is located in Washington.

Responsibilities

Successful RFF Fellows develop and lead research projects with other research staff, actively engage with diverse policy and stakeholder audiences (including federal, state, and local governments, as well as by the private and civil sector), communicate in the public arena, and contribute to fundraising efforts.

Early-career fellows are expected to:

• Conceive and manage research projects and produce original research suitable for publication in peer reviewed literature, policy publications, and RFF publications
• Provide analysis of policy issues and engage with decision makers and stakeholders
• Participate in public-facing events and write briefs, blogs, and short articles for non-academic audiences
• Contribute to fundraising efforts that reach government, foundation, corporate, individual, and other donors
• Participate in RFF institutional activities, including team meetings, staff presentations, and presentations to members of the RFF Board and President’s Council

Qualifications

• A PhD in economics or a closely related field within the past 5 years or on track to receive a PhD by August 2027
• We also welcome applications from candidates with other types of graduate degree (e.g., MA, JD, or PhDs less-closely related to economics) and who have 5-10 years of post-degree professional experience in environmental, natural resource, or energy policy research and engagement
• Outstanding oral and written communications skills
• Willingness to participate in public-facing events, write for non-academic policy audiences, and engage in fundraising activities

Application Procedures

Full and best consideration will be given to applications completed by November 1, 2026. Applications received by November 21 will also be reviewed.

The expected start date is no later than September 2027.

• Compensation: $133,000 - $166,000
• Medical, Dental, Vision coverage through Cigna
• Flexible summer hours (4-day work week June-Sept)
• 11 paid holidays
• Office closed the week between Christmas and New Years Day
• 4 weeks PTO to start, increases to 5 weeks after 5 years, in addition to 15 paid sick days per year
• State of the Art Fitness Facility on site and free for all employees with regular group classes
• RFF contributes 5% of your salary to a 403(b)-retirement account with opportunities for additional matching contributions.
• Commuter benefit plans (pre-tax metro and parking)

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, some standing, walking, sitting, bending, and carrying of light items such as books and papers is required.

Working Conditions

The work may involve everyday light risks and discomforts, which may require normal safety precautions typical of such places as offices, meetings, and training rooms, etc. The work area is adequately lit, heated, and ventilated. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position description may not describe all duties, responsibilities, and skills associated with this position. It is intended to portray the major aspects of the job and is not meant to be all inclusive. Other duties or skills may be required.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

RFF (Resources for the Future) is committed to the letter and spirit of diversity, equity, and inclusion. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or national and ethnic origin in hiring and employment, nor in the administration or other programs. RFF’s Vision for a Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Future.

Visit our FAQ page to find out what it's like to work at a world-class, policy-oriented research organization in the heart of Washington, DC.