The Institute for Global Affairs (IGA) at Eurasia Group has opened applications for its 2026 Nonresident Fellows Program—one of the most respected early-career fellowships in US foreign policy, communications, and global affairs. This paid, one-year program sits within the Independent America (IA) initiative and supports emerging experts who want to refine their writing, strengthen their public impact, and contribute to major debates shaping US foreign policy.
This opportunity is ideal for young scholars, analysts, journalists, and practitioners working on global issues who want to reach wider audiences through high-quality, accessible analysis.
Program Overview
The Nonresident Fellows Program brings together new voices with strong research backgrounds and diverse professional experience. Fellows explore how US foreign policy can adapt to shifting global power dynamics, test outdated assumptions, and develop balanced, realistic approaches to modern geopolitics.
A core part of the fellowship is public engagement. Fellows produce commentary, articles, and research that increase public understanding of today’s most important international issues.
What Fellows Gain
IGA provides fellows with the kind of editorial, communications, and media support rarely available in traditional academic settings. Throughout the program, participants receive guidance on pitching, writing, and publishing policy-relevant content, as well as opportunities for public speaking and media appearances.
Fellows also participate in regular workshops to refine articles, book chapters, digital content, and long-term projects.
Key Benefits
$4,000 stipend, delivered in two installments
Freedom to pursue projects across writing, multimedia, data, and events
Editorial and media relations support
Opportunities to publish in top outlets such as Foreign Policy, Foreign Affairs, The Washington Post, and War on the Rocks
TV and podcast exposure, including BBC and France 24
Access to a network of experts and thought partners
Hands-on professional development and communications training
What Fellows Are Expected to Do
Publish three to four deliverables, such as op-eds, articles, videos, explainers, or events
Participate in IGA projects and programs, including the None Of The Above podcast
Support social media initiatives through short videos or digital explainers when needed
Join monthly cohort meetings for writing workshops and career development
Attend the spring fellows retreat in New York City
Collaborate actively with the IA team and fellow participants
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should have significant engagement with US foreign policy, national security, or global affairs. Experience may come from academia, journalism, government service, analysis, or long-form reporting.
Ideal backgrounds include:
Political science
International relations
Security studies
Economics
History
International journalism
PhD holders must demonstrate the ability to communicate with general audiences—not just specialists. IGA strongly encourages applicants from historically underrepresented groups in the foreign policy field.
Each year’s cohort is built around strategic priorities. Even strong candidates may not be selected if their focus overlaps with existing fellows or does not align with IGA’s immediate agenda.
How to Apply
Submit the following as a single PDF or .doc file:
Cover letter
Curriculum vitae or résumé
Two writing samples (preferably opinion or commentary)
Send applications to [email protected], addressed to Jonathan Guyer and Lucas Robinson. In your cover letter, explain your interest in IGA’s mission and the Independent America program.
Deadline: December 5, 2025
Interviews: Early December 2025
Official Link: Available on the Institute for Global Affairs website
About Independent America (IA)
Led by Program Director Jonathan Guyer, the Independent America initiative explores how US foreign policy can better respond to changing global realities and align with the priorities of American voters.
About the Institute for Global Affairs
IGA produces objective, fact-driven research on geopolitics and international affairs. Through analysis, tools, data, and global partnerships, IGA promotes informed public debate and deeper understanding of global challenges.
FAQs
1. Is the IGA Nonresident Fellowship paid?
Yes, the program provides a $4,000 stipend in two installments.
2. What kind of work will fellows produce?
Fellows complete 3–4 deliverables such as articles, op-eds, videos, or public events.
3. Who should apply?
Early-career scholars, analysts, journalists, or practitioners working on US foreign policy or global affairs.
4. What is the deadline?
Applications close on December 5, 2025.
5. Do fellows need a PhD?
A PhD is not required. However, those with a PhD must show they can communicate clearly to broad audiences.
