Center for Global Development Careers 2026: Apply for Research and Policy Jobs in London and Washington, DC

The Center for Global Development (CGD) is inviting talented professionals from around the world to join one of the world’s leading independent think tanks dedicated to reducing global poverty and inequality. If you are passionate about influencing global development policy, conducting impactful research, and working alongside internationally recognized experts, the latest CGD career opportunities could be your next major career move.

CGD is currently recruiting for two prestigious positions in its London and Washington, DC offices. The organization is known globally for producing evidence-based research that shapes international development policy and improves lives across low- and middle-income countries.

Whether your expertise lies in climate policy, global health, economics, public finance, or international development, these opportunities offer the chance to contribute to meaningful global change while enjoying an outstanding work environment and competitive employee benefits.

About the Center for Global Development (CGD)

The Center for Global Development is an independent, non-profit research organization that works to reduce global poverty and inequality through innovative research and practical policy solutions.

CGD partners with governments, international organizations, foundations, academics, and policymakers to generate evidence that influences decisions on issues such as:

• Global health
• Climate change
• International development
• Economic growth
• Education
• Migration
• Debt sustainability
• Aid effectiveness
• Development finance
• Global governance

The organization believes that high-quality research can drive better public policies and create lasting improvements for millions of people worldwide.

Current Job Openings

CGD is currently accepting applications for the following positions:

1. Fellow – Climate Policy & Development

Location: London, United Kingdom

This role is designed for experienced professionals with expertise in climate policy, sustainable development, international economics, environmental policy, or related fields.

The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research and policy recommendations aimed at addressing climate challenges while promoting inclusive economic development.

Key responsibilities may include:

• Conducting high-quality policy research
• Publishing research papers and reports
• Collaborating with international experts
• Advising policymakers
• Participating in conferences and public events
• Supporting evidence-based climate policy development

Learn more and Apply Here

2. Senior Fellow and Director – Smart Buys Alliance

Location: Washington, DC, USA

This senior leadership position involves directing research initiatives, managing partnerships, and helping shape international development strategies.

Responsibilities may include:

• Leading major research projects
• Managing multidisciplinary teams
• Developing strategic partnerships
• Producing influential policy publications
• Representing CGD at international events
• Guiding organizational priorities

This opportunity is ideal for senior professionals with extensive leadership and research experience in international development.

The position is currently on hold, check for updates on the official website

Why Work at the Center for Global Development?

CGD emphasizes creating an inclusive and intellectually stimulating workplace where employees can thrive professionally while making meaningful contributions to global development.

Employees benefit from:

• Collaborative work culture
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Exposure to internationally recognized experts
• Meaningful global impact
• Research-driven policy engagement
• Inclusive and diverse workplace
• Continuous learning opportunities

Employee Benefits (United States Office)

Full-time employees based in the United States receive an excellent benefits package that includes:

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Six weeks of paid time off annually
• Fifteen paid holidays each year
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Short-term disability insurance
• Long-term disability insurance
• Fully paid parental leave
• Commuter benefits
• Retirement contribution of 15% after one year
• Onsite fitness center
• Tuition reimbursement
• Sports leagues
• Social activities
• Happy hours
• Ping pong
• Employee wellness initiatives

Employee Benefits (United Kingdom Office)

Employees based in the United Kingdom receive:

• 25 days of annual leave
• Bank holidays
• Enhanced employer pension contributions
• Enhanced family leave
• Critical illness insurance
• Income protection coverage
• Life assurance
• Health cash plan
• Salary sacrifice pension arrangements
• Personal learning and development funding
• Minimum three days in-office schedule
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Employee support networks
• Monthly team lunches
• Staff breakfasts
• Various social activities

CGD’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

The Center for Global Development believes that diversity strengthens research, innovation, and organizational excellence.

The organization welcomes applications from qualified candidates regardless of:

• Race
• Color
• Religion
• Gender
• Gender identity or expression
• Sexual orientation
• National origin
• Genetics
• Disability
• Age
• Parental status
• Veteran status

CGD is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute and succeed.

Who Should Consider Applying?

These opportunities are particularly suitable for professionals working in:

• Climate policy
• Economics
• International development
• Public policy
• Development finance
• Global health
• Political science
• International relations
• Research
• Sustainable development
• Social policy
• Environmental policy

Applicants with strong research backgrounds and experience translating evidence into practical policy solutions are encouraged to apply.

Career Growth Opportunities

Working at CGD provides professionals with opportunities to:

1. Influence international development policies.
2. Collaborate with globally respected researchers.
3. Publish impactful research.
4. Expand professional networks.
5. Engage with governments and international institutions.
6. Advance leadership and policy expertise.
7. Contribute to solutions addressing poverty and inequality worldwide.

Application Information

Interested candidates should review the specific requirements for their preferred position and submit all required application materials through the official Center for Global Development careers portal.

Because CGD receives a high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Why You Should Apply

A career at the Center for Global Development offers more than just employment—it provides an opportunity to influence policies that improve lives around the world. Whether you are advancing climate policy in London or leading international development initiatives in Washington, DC, you will work alongside world-class experts dedicated to creating evidence-based solutions for some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Professionals seeking intellectually rewarding careers with global impact will find the Center for Global Development to be an outstanding place to grow, innovate, and make a lasting difference.

For more information, visit the official website

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