Senior Fellow & Director, The Blockchain in Practice and Nuclear Safeguards Programs
Deadline to apply: January 31, 2023
Senior Fellow & Director, The Blockchain in Practice and Nuclear Safeguards Programs
Reports to: Vice President of Research Programs
Location: Washington, DC with hybrid schedule
The Henry L. Stimson Center, an award-winning foreign policy think tank, seeks a highly motivated individual to lead two programs, the Blockchain in Practice and Nuclear Safeguards programs as a full-time Senior Fellow and Director. The position is responsible for conceptualizing, managing, fundraising, and substantively completing multi-dimensional projects related to both programs.
For the Blockchain in Practice program, Stimson is at the forefront of examining and socializing technology among stakeholders and testing it in real-life scenarios. Projects focus on distributed ledger technology (DLT) which include incubating and developing proof of concepts on the trade in dual-use chemicals and for nuclear safeguards and security. The positions involve cross-programmatic work with other programs at Stimson and involves research related to the Chemical Weapons Convention, the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC), the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT), national, regional and international safeguards agreements and engaging with a range of stakeholders, including DLT developers, chemical industry, government, academia and civil society. For the Nuclear Safeguards, the position requires significant expertise and credibility in the implementation of nuclear safeguards, including safeguards data management, and governance of the global nuclear fuel cycle.
Essential Functions
- Set priorities for DLT proof of concepts alongside nuclear safeguards projects, communicate these priorities effectively, and manage them efficiently;
- Examine the impact of evolving international safeguards obligations on States and facility operators across the nuclear fuel cycle (from front end to back end);
- Advance knowledge on advances in DLT and use cases related to global security;
- Advance knowledge, debate and policy-making on nuclear material accountancy and safeguards through research-based results and policy recommendations that identify gaps and best practices in safeguards implementation;
- Conceptualize and implement research/advocacy projects that advance knowledge, debate and policy-making in nuclear safeguards, including export controls;
- Prepare substantive content for funding proposals and identify, develop, and cultivate funding;
- Build relationships and networks with influential individuals and institutions in the field of nuclear security, safeguards, chemical weapons nonproliferation and blockchain technology;
- Manage international and local partners involved in projects;
- Conceptualize, research, and publish analysis and finding through op-eds, reports, books, policy briefs, press releases, etc.;
- Relay timely and useful information to press contacts upon request;
- Support other project work through evaluation of proposal ideas, writings, and finding areas of intersection of work;
- Develop and implement mechanisms to evaluate project progress and ensure timely and high-quality work product;
- Monitor project spending and funding; and
- Manage and develop project staff.
The above specified tasks may not be the only duties assigned. Employees will be required to carry out any other job-related instructions requested by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodations.
Required Education, Skills, Experience
- Master's degree in related field (nuclear engineering, international relations/political science/data management, etc.) and 15 years relevant experience or PhD in related field and 12 years of experience;
- Experience with substantive issue areas of the program and proven track record with skills to lead the program; superior writing, analysis, and communications skills;
- A pragmatic mindset, cooperative attitude, and a visionary, innovative spirit;
- Desire to work in a highly collaborative environment with a focus on producing work of excellence and influence;
- Fundraising skills and track record of success;
- Excellent management and staff development skills;
- Proven ability to manage departmental budget; and
- Willingness to travel, when appropriate.
Application Requirements
Submit CV, cover letter, and a writing sample in a single PDF.
Stimson is an equal opportunity employer that celebrates, supports, and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion. We will consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable laws.