Defence researcher

The CER is looking for a bright and enthusiastic defence expert to join our research team.

We welcome applications from candidates with at least three years’ experience of working on European security and defence issues – in the public or private sectors, academia, media or think-tanks. Candidates should have an excellent understanding of European security dynamics, EU defence policy and EU defence industrial policy. They should also have a good understanding of European politics and the workings of the EU. 

Knowledge of the European defence industry, of NATO policies and of military affairs would be a plus. An understanding of the EU-UK relationship would also be beneficial. 

Applicants should be able to write English clearly and simply, and be comfortable speaking at seminars and to journalists. An established network among policy-makers and journalists would be an advantage. 

The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to CER fundraising and to organising its events programme. Salary will depend on experience, but will be competitive. They could work out of our London or Brussels offices. The CER offers a generous pension scheme.

The CER operates an open and transparent recruitment process. It is strongly committed to non-discrimination on grounds of gender, ethnicity, sexuality or age. We particularly welcome female applicants and those from an ethnic minority background.                            

Job location: London or Brussels
Annual Salary: Competitive, plus generous pension employer contributions
Annual Leave: 25 days per annum, plus additional time between Christmas and New Year.
Contract Duration: Permanent
Hours: 35 hours per week

Those wishing to apply should upload a covering letter and a CV (with references) addressed to Sophie Valiant. 

The closing date for applications is midday (London time) on May 6th 2025.
Interviews will be held on Tuesday 27th May via Zoom.