Think tanks conduct research and advocacy on social issues, with funding from government programs, grants, corporations, and political interest groups. Jobs include researcher, analyst, writer, editor, and legislative associate, with a focus on excellent communication skills and experience in writing or journalism. Internships can lead to permanent positions. It is important to understand the ethical and political beliefs of the organization and where funding comes from.
Think tanks conduct research and advocate on issues that affect different aspects of our lives, particularly those related to social problems or dilemmas. Some think tanks, also known as policy institutes, specialize in just one area of research, while others have a broader scope. Funding for think tanks varies and can be provided by federal government programs, grants, state or local government funding, corporations, businesses, or political interest groups. Consultation fees can also generate income for think tanks.
Some think tank jobs include researcher, analyst, writer, editor, and legislative associate. Working for a think tank can involve all of these roles, or one person can specialize in a particular area. Responsibilities are very dependent on the size and scope of the organization, as well as its funding.
Researchers are an integral part of think tanks as they conduct the studies and collect data that think tanks need to operate. Analysts interpret the data and writers are usually responsible for publishing findings. Editors are responsible for ensuring that everything produced or published by the think tank is error-free and as accurate as possible.
Because think tanks often deal with political issues, they sometimes employ legislative associates. These associates participate in legislative meetings, hearings and events, and communicate with legislators on policy issues. Legislative associates are generally very familiar with the legislative process and understand how to communicate effectively with policymakers.
While most think tank jobs require some form of degree, usually a bachelor’s degree or higher, this is not necessarily the case in all situations. Most think tanks will employ interns who often work for free while learning about the think tank world. In many cases, internships are reserved for university students, however hiring is at the discretion of the organization.
Think tanks operate in institutions around the world. They can be found at American and European universities, particularly large, well-known universities with a specific focus on a topic. NGOs (non-governmental organisations) are often supported by think tanks and are a good source of employment for think tanks.
Focus groups tend to research and advocate on issues such as foreign policy, gender issues, poverty, economic issues, health issues, global development, urban issues, housing and work. An educational background in any of these topics, experience in the field, or a combination of both is very helpful and often necessary for working for a specific think tank. Many students and graduates who are new to the think tank created start out by working as interns, often without pay. Internships can lead to a permanent placement with a decent salary and benefits for undergraduates.
Regardless of education, there are certain skills that tank jobs require. While each job has its own unique requirements, the most general skills needed to work successfully in a think tank are excellent communication skills and experience in writing or journalism. A bachelor’s degree or work experience in communications; writing / journalism; political science, international relations, international trade relations; gender studies; economy; Education; or another discipline in the social sciences is highly desired.
As think tanks are often the backbone of political advocacy, they will often be associated with a particular political group and its ideals. Anyone considering employment with a think tank should understand the ethical and political beliefs that the organization stands for. Also, some research should be done to find out where the funding for the think tank comes from.
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