Research Director

Overall Responsibility:

The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) is seeking an accomplished Director of Research to lead our research efforts and oversee the production of high-impact policy publications. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in research management, a deep alignment with America First principles, and a mastery of writing, editing, and scholarly standards. This role will ensure that AFPI’s research output is rigorous, timely, and influential in shaping national policy debates.The Director of Research leads AFPI’s research initiatives, overseeing the development and dissemination of policy research that aligns with America First principles and influences national policy debates.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Collaborate with policy directors and executive leadership to design and implement a strategic research agenda that addresses critical national issues.

• Oversee the entire research publication process, from planning and production to final dissemination, ensuring timely delivery and high impact.

• Manage the internal peer-review system to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity and policy relevance.

• Edit research papers for accuracy, coherence, alignment with America First values, and excellence in grammar, style, and voice.

• Ensure all publications comply with APA Style and any institute-specific guidelines.

• Lead and mentor a team of researchers, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and innovation.

• Coordinate with communications and development teams to integrate research into advocacy campaigns and fundraising efforts.

• Represent AFPI in public forums, media appearances, and policy discussions to amplify the institute’s influence.

• Support additional organizational initiatives, including editing non-research documents and contributing to grant proposals.

Consults With:

Research staff, policy experts, executive leadership, communications and development teams, external partners, and stakeholders.

Type of Employment: Full-time

Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in public policy, political science, economics, or a related field.

• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in research leadership, preferably within a think tank, policy organization, or academic institution.

• Proven track record of managing complex research projects and leading high-performing teams.

• Deep understanding of and commitment to America First policies, including national sovereignty, economic nationalism, and security.

• Exceptional writing, editing, and analytical skills, with meticulous attention to detail.

• Proficiency in APA Style and familiarity with academic publishing standards.

• Strong organizational and project management abilities, capable of handling multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent public speaking and media engagement skills, with the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.

• Experience engaging with federal policymakers or a strong understanding of the federal legislative and regulatory processes is highly desirable.

• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Salaries for positions will be commensurate with the experience, expertise, and skills of the individual. Please send a cover letter, resume, salary requirement, writing samples, and references.

AFPI is a non-profit, non-partisan research institute offering competitive salaries and benefits to qualified candidates.