Description

The Center on Global Energy Policy (CGEP), Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs
New York, NY | Hybrid, with a minimum of three days per week on campus
Lead the research agenda of a globally recognized energy policy institution

The Center on Global Energy Policy (CGEP) at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs seeks an exceptional research leader to serve as Senior Director of Research. This is a rare opportunity for an accomplished energy policy expert and organizational leader to help shape the future of one of the world’s leading platforms for independent, policy-relevant research on global energy challenges.

Based in New York City, the Senior Director of Research will be expected to work on campus at Columbia University at least three days per week. The role requires a visible, engaged leader who can build strong relationships across CGEP, SIPA, and the broader Columbia community while working closely with scholars, researchers, staff, partners, and stakeholders.

The Senior Director will have the scholarly standing to lead a community of respected researchers and the management capabilities to run a complex, mission-driven research organization.

The Opportunity
Energy systems are undergoing profound transformation. The challenges of energy security, affordability, decarbonization, emerging technologies, and geopolitical competition require research leaders who can connect rigorous scholarship with real-world policy impact.

The Senior Director of Research will play a central role in defining CGEP’s intellectual direction, strengthening its research portfolio, and ensuring the center remains at the forefront of global energy policy conversations. This leader will work with CGEP leadership, faculty affiliates, researchers, and external partners to identify emerging priorities, develop impactful research initiatives, and advance the center’s reputation for independent, rigorous analysis.

Why CGEP
CGEP is a globally recognized center for independent research and dialogue on the most consequential energy challenges facing the world. Located within Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs in New York City, CGEP brings together scholars, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to advance practical solutions through rigorous research, analysis, and convening.

The Senior Director of Research will have the opportunity to shape a globally significant research agenda, strengthen an influential institution, and lead a community of experts working on the defining energy issues of our time.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute CGEP’s research strategy in alignment with its mission and global energy priorities
• Partner with faculty, fellows, researchers, and external experts to shape a high-impact research agenda
• Maintain and elevate standards of scholarly excellence, analytical rigor, and policy relevance
• Lead, mentor, and manage a talented team of researchers and program staff
• Create an environment that supports intellectual ambition, collaboration, and professional growth
• Oversee the development of research programs, publications, convenings, and other initiatives
• Build effective partnerships across Columbia University and with policymakers, industry leaders, foundations, and international organizations
• Represent CGEP externally through public events, publications, media engagement, and high-level discussions
• Identify opportunities for strategic growth, collaboration, and increased impact

Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will be a respected leader in energy policy research who combines intellectual depth with proven organizational leadership.

They will bring:

• A distinguished record of research, analysis, or policy leadership in energy, climate, economics, international affairs, or a related field
• The scholarly credibility and intellectual curiosity to engage meaningfully with faculty, researchers, and academic partners
• Experience leading research programs, multidisciplinary teams, or mission-driven organizations
• Demonstrated ability to manage people, budgets, priorities, and complex initiatives
• The ability to translate rigorous research into insights that inform policymakers, business leaders, and public audiences
• Strong relationships across academia, government, industry, think tanks, and/or international organizations
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• A collaborative leadership style with a commitment to developing talent and fostering an inclusive intellectual community
• Candidates may come from senior roles in leading universities, think tanks, government institutions, consulting organizations, research organizations, or energy-focused institutions.