Fellow, Global Development and Innovation
The Opportunity
The Federation of American Scientists (FAS) is seeking a part-time fellow to support its research and policy development for the advancement of evidence-based innovations at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). FAS is undertaking a series of activities aimed at identifying policy opportunities to scale up successful global development programs/innovations or “best buys” within the federal government. FAS has supported several strategic initiatives to advance innovation and evidence-based policy with USAID and other federal agencies. We have developed policy ideas and insights in support of the agency’s priorities, while advocating for improved practices to support a culture of evidence and innovation.
To advance these efforts, FAS is recruiting an expert with experience in evidence and innovation in global development, and with direct experience working with or in the U.S. global development agencies including USAID. The contractor should possess skill sets in global development policy, scaling innovations, cost-effective interventions, designing and testing global development interventions, bilateral/multilateral development agencies and their approaches to effective foreign aid, US Government policy especially at USAID, MCC, DFC and the State Department. FAS anticipates this role will lead to follow-on opportunities to support the launch of new initiatives focused on increasing the uptake of evidence-based interventions at USAID and beyond.
What you’ll do
- Provide subject matter expertise and work with the FAS team to assess global interventions that work (i.e.“best buys”) in global development and should be considered for scaling up in federal policy.
- Offer ideas and contributions for how identified interventions can be advanced through policy mechanisms in the federal government with a focus on USAID.
- Partner with FAS staff and engage global experts in developing scale-up policy plans for the identified interventions.
- Provide reviews, written, and verbal input on policy documents and strategies to support implementation of “best buys’ and global development interventions.
- Engage with leaders in United States Government (USG) global development agencies, particularly USAID, to discuss strategies and barriers related to the implementation and scaling of innovations within the agency.
- Offer expertise on innovation and policy mechanisms within USAID and other federal agencies to contribute directly to outputs aimed at scaling successful global development innovations.
Skills and Experience (Requirements)
- 5+ years working in/on global development research, programs, evaluation, policy or related topics.
- Demonstrated expertise and knowledge working to advance, evaluate, or research effective global development interventions (in previous professional roles, publications or other documented experience).
- Knowledge of the inner workings of USAID (and/or other federal global agencies) including policies, processes, organizational structure and systems such as acquisitions and assistance, hiring and talent, evaluation and data systems, and other related areas.
- Direct experience working in USAID or other federal agencies is a plus but not required.
- Experience contributing to written publications and oral presentations.
- Knowledge of the various policies and programs across the U.S. government related to development.
- Familiarity with Congress’ role in U.S. development policy and foreign assistance specifically.Familiar with networks across international development such as the World Bank, United Nations, and regional banks and organizations.
Work Environment
This position is remote with the option of being in person if the contractor is based in Washington DC.
Compensation
The Fellow will be compensated for part time work, for a 6-month fellowship at 10 hours per week.
Timeframe to Hire
FAS looking to fill this contractor position quickly. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Early submission will ensure your application receives full consideration.