Egmont Royal Institute for International Relations is looking for a Research Fellow on China

A Research Fellow on China For our Europe in the World Programme

• half-time, 2-year contract

• Deadline for application: 14 October 2022

• Start date: as soon as possible

Purpose

China is an inevitable player in regional and global governance around the globe. Next to its diplomacy, China’s major importance in international trade and investment networks and its growing military capabilities have fashioned it with an increasingly powerful set of instruments to shape global issues. But China’s geoeconomic, geopolitical, and normative ambitions are increasingly experiencing friction and even resistance in places close and far to its shore. China’s actions are changing the international system in fundamental and complex ways. But equally important is the response to its actions, which is transforming China’s foreign policy trajectory. The Egmont Institute wants to consolidate its work on China’s foreign policy. For this, it is seeking a half-time Research Fellow who will undertake relevant policy research on key aspects of China’s global footprint and lead the implementation of an EU-funded research project.

Main responsibilities

• Conduct policy research in relevant areas of Chinese foreign policy and EU-China relations

• Lead the implementation of the ‘ReConnect China’ research project, which includes the writing of research reports, organisation of conferences and workshops, network coordination, and other tasks

• Write reports and policy briefs as well as shorter commentaries and media pieces

• Interact with Belgian and international news media

• Planning, organisation and supporting implementation of events

• Building and maintaining a network with relevant policy- and other stakeholders

Qualifications and skills

• Candidates must have a Master’s degree in sinology, international relations, international law, or related fields

• Knowledge of the Chinese language is a strong asset. Excellent knowledge of English. Knowledge of French and/or Dutch is highly recommended

• Relevant work experience in international institutions, think tanks, or diplomatic representations is a plus

• Excellent research and analytical skills, the ability to devise and lead research projects, prepare detailed reports and briefing papers, setting out relevant research findings and policy recommendations

• Ability to maintain and develop a substantial network of relevant stakeholders

• Ability to work autonomously, sense of initiative, team spirit, intellectual curiosity, flexibility and adaptability.

What we offer

• A part-time employment contract (50%) for 2 years, with competitive renumeration

• An exciting environment in one of Brussels’ key foreign policy think tanks

• High level of autonomy and responsibility to develop the research project

• Office space in the heart of Belgium’s foreign affairs district

How to Apply

Send a CV and a motivation letter compiled in a PDF file (no more than three pages in total) should be emailed to Prof. Dr Sven Biscop, Director, Europe in the World Programme, by 14 October 2022: s.biscop@egmontinstitute.be.