Title: SENIOR POLICY RESEARCHER
Status: Full-time
Location: Pristina – Kosovo
Reporting to: Executive Director
Balkans Group is seeking a highly qualified Senior Policy Researcher to join our team in advancing impactful, evidence-based research and policy recommendations. This is a full-time, in office position. We require in-depth knowledge of Balkans Group programmatic areas, including public policy, governance, rule of law, regional cooperation, energy, EU and international agendas, approximation with EU processes, and key issues in Kosovo and Western Balkans countries.
Key responsibilities:
- Lead and conduct policy research on topics such as good governance, public policies, democratic institutions, regional cooperation, energy, EU and international agendas, and other related policy topics concerning Kosovo and the region.
- Develop well-structured, evidence-based policy papers, reports, and briefings.
- Monitor and analyse national and regional policy developments and identify key areas for BPRG engagement.
- Support the design and implementation of research projects and policy initiatives.
- Present findings to stakeholders, including institutions, policymakers, civil society, and international partners.
- Ensure full compliance with BPRG’s research policies and writing style, including adherence to The Economist-style writing standards, i.e., active writing, clarity, structure, and evidence-based argumentation (both are mandatory requirements).
- Report directly to the Executive Director.
Qualifications:
- Advanced degree in public policy, political science, law, or related fields.
- At least 5 years of professional experience in policy research and writing.
- Proven experience in drafting analytical and policy-oriented publications.
- Strong and proven knowledge and understanding of governance and institutional issues in the Western Balkans.
- Proven experience in conducting complex, multi-phased research methods.
- Excellent command of English (written and spoken).
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and effectively manage multitasking.
How to apply:
- CV – in English
- Cover letter – in English
- A writing sample in English that should be:
- policy focused (e.g., public policy, governance, reforms, institutions, EU integration, international relations, regional cooperation, or related issues) – for reference on important policy areas, please visit the Balkans Group’s publication on our website.
- 3-6 pages in length (excluding footnotes); 11-point Garamond font, 1.5 line spacing.
- Structured with a clear introduction, analysis, and policy recommendations.
- Properly sourced with footnotes.
- Authored solely or primarily by the applicant.
Successful candidates will be invited for an interview. The closing date for applications is 11 August 2025.
Full applications with “Senior Policy Researcher” in the email subject should be emailed to [email protected].