JOE Listings (Job Openings for Economists)

August 1, 2025 - January 31, 2026

Resources for the Future

Research and Policy Engagement
Mid - Senior Research Fellow

JOE ID Number: 2025-02_111476065
Date Posted: 08/19/2025
Position Title/Short Description
Title: Mid - Senior Research Fellow
Section: Full-Time Nonacademic
Location: Washington DC, District of Columbia, UNITED STATES
JEL Classifications:
Q3 -- Nonrenewable Resources and Conservation
Q4 -- Energy
Q5 -- Environmental Economics
Keywords:
Resource Economics
Environmental Economics
Energy Economics
Salary Range: $166000 - $250000
Full Text of JOE Listing:

Organizational Profile

Resources for the Future (RFF)’s mission is to improve environmental, energy, and natural resource decisions through impartial economic research and policy engagement. RFF research has shaped many of the world’s most successful environmental policies over the past 70 years.

Summary

RFF is seeking mid and senior PhD-level researchers in economics or related fields with a desire to engage policy audiences and make lasting impacts on environmental decisions.

Fellows conduct publishable research, lead projects, and actively engage in policy. We seek candidates with expertise in the analysis of environmental, natural resource, or energy policies – particularly related to U.S. issues (for example, climate risks and resilience, or the industrial, fuels, electricity, forestry, and agricultural sectors.)

Senior Fellows develop and lead research with other staff, engage with diverse stakeholders, communicate externally, fundraise, and help set organizational strategy. Our connections to policy audiences, team of experts, and location in Washington DC provide a unique platform for seasoned research leaders to leverage their expertise for real-world change.

Qualifications

Mid Career Fellow: A PhD in economics or closely related field, and more than 5 years of post-degree professional experience in environmental policy research.
More detailed qualifications are provided in the full job description: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=409043&clientkey=6F2AC920A789A528ADE40C4F938057D6

Senior Fellow: A PhD in economics or closely related field, and more than 15 years of post-degree professional experience in environmental, energy, natural resource, or climate policy research; OR, An alternative graduate degree (e.g., MA, JD, or MPP in fields related to environmental economics) and at least 20 years of post-degree professional experience in environmental, energy, natural resource, or climate research and engagement.
More detailed qualifications are provided in the full job description:
https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=409087&clientkey=6F2AC920A789A528ADE40C4F938057D6

Application Procedures

All applicants should use RFF’s on-line application process at www.rff.org/careers

Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.    

Should you experience any difficulty in applying online, or if you have other questions about the role, please email midcareerhiring@rff.org. 

This role is located in Washington, DC with opportunities for remote work arrangements.

RFF values diversity in its research staff, fostering a safe, equitable, and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. Our DEI (Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion) statement and principles can be found at https://www.rff.org/about/diversity-equity-inclusion/

RFF offers an exceptional benefits package, including generous leave and retirement benefits. Details can be found at https://www.rff.org/careers/frequently-asked-questions/.

Application Requirements:
  • External Application Link
Application deadline: 01/31/2026