As emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and biotechnology reshape the global landscape, the divide between the tech sector and international diplomacy is narrowing. For technologists who want to step out of the lab and into the world of high-stakes policy, there is perhaps no more prestigious platform than the Council on Foreign Relations.
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The 2026-2027 CFR Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship, sponsored by the Eric and Wendy Schmidt Fund for Strategic Innovation, is a unique 10-month program designed to bridge this gap. Offering a substantial salary of $136,500 and full employee benefits, this fellowship invites early- and mid-career professionals to conduct policy-oriented research at the intersection of technology and national security. It is a transformational opportunity to build enduring networks with global experts and influence the future of U.S. foreign policy.
CFR Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) |
| Location | USA (New York or Washington, DC) |
| Target Audience | Early- and Mid-Career Technologists |
| Primary Benefit | $136,500 Salary (10 Months) + Full Benefits |
| Program Type | Professional Residency and Policy Research |
| Application Deadline | February 28, 2026 |
About the CFR Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship 2026-2027
This fellowship seeks to enrich the global perspective of technologists by immersing them in the CFR world-class intellectual environment. Technologists-in-Residence spend their time producing high-level analysis that explores how emerging technologies impact international relations. The program is specifically designed to promote interdisciplinary knowledge-sharing, helping tech experts understand the geopolitical implications of their work while providing CFR members with deep technical insights. It is a two-way street of innovation and strategy.
2026-2027 CFR Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows are integrated into the CFR team with the following benefits:
- Competitive Salary: A total payment of $136,500 for the ten-month duration, paid on a biweekly schedule.
- Full Employment Status: Fellows are hired as CFR employees, making them eligible for standard employment benefits subject to contract and policy.
- Strategic Network: Access to the CFR’s vast network of foreign policy experts, government officials, and world leaders.
- Resource Access: Full use of the Council’s research facilities, libraries, and meeting spaces in New York or Washington, DC.
- Career Transformation: An opportunity to pivot or expand a career into the fields of national security, tech diplomacy, or policy consulting.
2026-2027 CFR Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Work Authorization: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Please note that CFR does not provide visa sponsorship for this role.
- Career Stage: The program is restricted to early-career or mid-career professionals with a strong record of achievement in the technology sector.
- Education: A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent is required. While a PhD is not mandatory, academic applicants usually hold advanced degrees.
- Sector Preference: Strong preference is given to candidates currently working in the private-sector technology industry.
- Interest Area: A demonstrated interest in foreign policy or national security is essential.
- Exclusions: The fellowship does not fund degree completion, pre-doctoral/postdoctoral academic research, or projects that are already substantially finished.
Selection Process and Criteria of the CFR Technologist-in-Residence Fellowship 2026-2027
The selection process is highly competitive, as only one fellowship is awarded each year. The committee evaluates candidates based on:
- Professional Merits: Your track record of innovation and leadership in the tech sector.
- Proposal Feasibility: The quality and impact of your research proposal regarding technology and U.S. foreign policy.
- Career Impact: How the fellowship will serve as a catalyst for your professional development.
- Fellowship History: Preference is given to those who have never previously held a CFR fellowship.
Step by Step Application Guide for the CFR Fellowship
Phase 1: Research Proposal Development
- Identify a Policy Intersection: Choose a tech topic (e.g., AI ethics, cybersecurity, semiconductor supply chains) and link it directly to a U.S. national security concern.
- Define the Impact: Outline how your residency will contribute to mutual understanding between the tech and policy communities.
- Verify Feasibility: Ensure your 10-month timeline is realistic for the scope of the project you are proposing.
Phase 2: Document Compilation
- Gather Biographical Info: Prepare your updated CV and educational history.
- Secure Support Letters: Request two letters of support from individuals who can vouch for your professional achievements and your potential to contribute to the policy field.
- Draft the Proposal: Your proposal should clearly articulate the intended research and the specific impact on your professional development.
Phase 3: Official Submission
- Access the Portal: Submit your application through the official CFR fellowship portal.
- Check for Completeness: Ensure your educational and employment data are accurately entered to avoid disqualification.
- Final Submission: Complete the process before the February 28, 2026, deadline.
What should i do if i miss the CFR Fellowship deadline
Missing the February 28 deadline means you will have to wait for the next annual cycle, as CFR fellowships are strictly scheduled. In the meantime, you can engage with the Council by following their “Foreign Affairs” publication or attending public events to deepen your understanding of the policy world.
If you are eager to move into the tech-policy space immediately, consider looking into the AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowships or the TechCongress Congressional Innovation Fellowship, which often have different application timelines.
Expert Advice for the CFR Fellowship
- Use the SMART Method: When writing your proposal, be Specific about the tech-policy gap you are addressing. Ensure your project is Achievable within the 10-month residence period.
- Apply the STAR Technique: If describing your tech achievements, highlight a Situation where a technology you worked on had geopolitical implications, the Task you managed, the Action you took to address it, and the Resulting success.
- Emphasis: Focus on the “Private-Sector” advantage. If you are coming from a tech company, emphasize how your industry experience provides a perspective that career diplomats might lack.
- Proactive Tip: Reach out to your referees at least six weeks in advance. Because CFR is highly prestigious, letters of support need to be detailed and reflect your capacity for high-level policy analysis.
Deadline: February 28, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the CFR Fellowship 2026-2027
Q1: Do I need a background in Political Science to apply? No, the program is designed for technologists. However, you must demonstrate a strong interest and some level of engagement with foreign policy issues.
Q2: Is the $136,500 salary for the whole year? The salary is specifically for the 10-month duration of the fellowship (September to June).
Q3: Can I work my regular job while doing this fellowship? No, this is considered full-time employment with the Council on Foreign Relations, and you are expected to be a full-time resident.
Q4: Will CFR help me get a work visa? No, applicants must already have legal authorization to work in the U.S. as a prerequisite for applying.
Q5: Is there a specific age limit for “mid-career”? There is no strict age limit, but “mid-career” typically refers to professionals with 7 to 15 years of experience in their field.
Q6: Where is the fellowship located? Fellows are typically based at CFR’s offices in either New York City or Washington, DC.
Q7: Can I use this fellowship to finish my PhD thesis? No, the program does not fund work toward a degree or pre-doctoral research.
Q8: What kind of “technology sector” experience is required? This is broad and can include software engineering, data science, hardware manufacturing, biotech, aerospace, and more.
Q9: How many fellowships are awarded? CFR awards only one Technologist-in-Residence fellowship per year, making it extremely competitive.
Q10: Are there benefits like health insurance included? Yes, as a CFR employee, you are eligible for the standard benefits package offered to full-time staff.
