The Lowy Institute

The Lowy Institute is Australia’s leading international policy think tank. It is independent, nonpartisan and at the centre of Australia’s foreign policy and national security debates. Located in Sydney, the Institute provides high-quality, high-impact, evidence-driven research and distinctive perspectives on international trends. The Institute’s research is globally recognised for its analysis on the United States, China, Southeast Asia and the Pacific Island region, as well as its thematic expertise in economic, security, climate change and development issues.

The Lowy Institute hosts distinguished Australian and international speakers on foreign policy, defence, politics, aid and development. With a focus on the Asia-Pacific region, the Institute’s research, events and conferences attract significant global attention, and our experts produce commentary for the world’s leading news outlets.

The Lowy Institute is seeking a distinguished scholar to be the inaugural India Chair of the Institute’s newly established India Program.

About the role

The India Chair will oversee a program of world-class research on India’s emerging role in the Indo-Pacific and the world, focusing in particular on relations with Australia, China, Japan and the United States and dynamics in the Indian Ocean region.

This is a rare opportunity to lead and shape a new program of work at Australia’s leading international policy think tank.

The India Chair and overall program will deepen policy and public understanding of geopolitical issues facing India and its Indian Ocean region, as well as India’s role in the broader Indo-Pacific including in relation to Southeast Asia and the region’s major powers. The program will help both Australian and international audiences better understand the interests, dilemmas and ambitions of India when it comes to regional balancing and economic security.

About you

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding and knowledge of India’s foreign policy and strategic calculus. They will have strong links within India across government, business and academia and an international expert profile.

Candidates will need to demonstrate a strong record of achievement in academia, think tanks, journalism or policymaking. Candidates should be dynamic and self-starting individuals with excellent analytical and communications skills and confident presentation. They should be clear and expressive writers, with strong interpersonal skills, exceptional organisational skills and experience in media commentary.

The successful candidate will join the organisation at a level commensurate with experience, and with salary and benefits set accordingly.

How to apply

Please submit your CV and cover letter to recruit@lowyinstitute.org by 18 July 2025.

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible.

For additional information regarding the role please contact Lowy Institute recruitment via the email above.