The European Policy Institute in Kyiv (EPIK) is being established by the Swedish Institute of International Affairs (UI) through its Stockholm Centre for Eastern European Studies (SCEEUS). EPIK will be a new central hub for innovative policy development focused on Ukraine’s security and EU accession process. We are now recruiting Policy Fellows to join this exciting initiative in Kyiv.

Founded in 1938, UI is Sweden’s leading centre for research and information on foreign and security policy. Through research, analysis, conferences, and publications, UI promotes informed dialogue and contributes to public debate on global affairs. With over 70 employees and two national knowledge centres—SCEEUS and the National Knowledge Centre on China—UI continues to expand its reach and impact.

We are now recruiting four Policy Fellows to join EPIK, where they will collaborate with visiting fellows from Ukraine and across Europe. Fellows will carry out policy-relevant research on Ukraine’s EU accession and European security and play a key role in strategic policy-making and public debate.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to Ukraine’s European future through high-level policy work in an international setting. We welcome applications from both established thought leaders and emerging talent. The positions are based at the Institute in Kyiv and involve travel. Candidates must be prepared to work in a challenging and unpredictable security environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Policy Research and Analysis – Conduct innovative research on Ukraine’s security and EU accession, including monitoring relevant developments and debates.
• Public Representation – Represent the Institute in media, public events, policy discussions, and roundtables.
• Networking and Dialogue – Build and maintain strong connections with experts, policymakers, and civil society in Ukraine and the EU, actively participating in policy dialogue.
• Written Contributions – Draft policy briefs, reports, and commentaries for both expert and general audiences, and contribute to the Institute’s overall publications.
• Advocacy and Strategic Support – Support advocacy efforts related to EU accession and European security and assist with fundraising and donor reporting under the Director’s guidance.

Experience and Skills Requirements

• Educational Background – Master’s degree or higher in Political Science, International Relations, Security Studies, Law, or a related field.
• Professional Experience – Demonstrated experience in research, analysis, or policy development within think tanks, academia, government, civil society, or international organizations.
• Subject Matter Expertise – Strong knowledge of EU institutions, enlargement policy, Ukraine’s reform agenda, and European security with a focus on regional defense.
• Skills and Additional Assets – Excellent writing and analytical skills; ability to formulate clear policy recommendations; experience in project-based work and international collaboration is an advantage.

Personal characteristics and qualities

The ideal candidate has a strong analytical mindset and can connect Ukraine’s EU accession process with evolving security dynamics to generate coherent policy insights. Outstanding communication and presentation skills are essential, including the ability to brief decision-makers and engage diverse audiences. The role demands both independence and effective teamwork in an international environment, as well as flexibility and resilience in a complex political and security context. A deep commitment to integrity, inclusivity, and the delivery of high-quality policy outputs is expected.

Language skills

Fluency in English is required. Fluency in Ukrainian is highly desirable, and knowledge of Russian and/or another EU language is considered an asset.

Position Details

This is a full-time position based in Kyiv, Ukraine, open to candidates at both senior and junior levels. The role reports to the Director, with daily coordination provided by the Chief of Staff. The initial contract is for one year, with the possibility of extension during the three-year project phase.

Preferred start date: As soon as possible.

Application instructions

Please submit the following documents:

• A personal letter (maximum one page)
• Your CV, including contact details for at least two referees
• A proposal (maximum two pages) outlining ideas for policy briefs, commentaries, and other outputs you would aim to focus on during the next 12 months if selected for the position

Application deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews will be conducted as suitable candidates are identified.

We value diversity and inclusion and strive to create a workplace where everyone feels welcome. We strongly encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply. All EPIK staff are expected to work and act in line with relevant policies established by EPIK, as well as in line with the agreements with the EU Delegation and Sida, and with UI’s established policies and guidelines.