Working at a (DC) policy think tank: Why you might want to do it, what it’s like, and how to get a job

Abstract

Think tanks are often key players in the policy arena, providing analysts with the time to conceive, analyze, and advocate for specific policy ideas. This article describes the think tank world, focusing specifically on US policy and Washington DC-based think tanks. The article argues that working at a think tank can be a great way to build policy-relevant skills and networks, and to promote high-impact policy ideas. Specifically, it provides guidance on the kinds of think tanks that exist, the types of work that can be done at think tanks, and how to find and pursue specific job opportunities. – AI-generated abstract