Professional Specialist

The Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination (LISD) at the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs seeks a Professional Specialist to provide intellectual leadership on academic programming, research initiatives, and teaching related to Europe and transatlantic relations.

This position is designed for a distinguished practitioner-scholar with significant experience at the highest levels of diplomacy or international policy. The successful candidate will shape and lead LISD’s strategic engagement on European political dynamics and transatlantic affairs, drawing on deep expertise and an extensive international network.

This is a highly visible, externally facing role focused on leading major initiatives, convening senior policymakers and scholars, mentoring students, and advancing policy-relevant scholarship. The position emphasizes intellectual leadership and institutional impact. Any teaching opportunities are subject to the approval of the Dean of the Faculty.

The appointment will run from September 1, 2026, through February 1, 2027.

About LISD

The Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination (LISD) supports teaching, research, events, and publications on issues of self-determination in a globalizing world. The Institute promotes scholarship and dialogue on sovereignty, security, human rights, diversity, and international cooperation among state and non-state actors.

Primary Responsibilities

• Advance research and thought leadership, including producing original scholarly or policy-relevant work and contributing to high-level academic and policy discourse.
• Provide intellectual and strategic leadership in shaping LISD’s programming on Europe and transatlantic relations.
• Lead the development and execution of a major academic conference, including setting the intellectual agenda and engaging leading international participants.
• Spearhead an international academic initiative, including planning and leading a faculty- and student-focused academic trip to Europe that integrates policy, academic, and practitioner perspectives.
• Cultivate and strengthen institutional partnerships with key stakeholders, including governments, European institutions, and multilateral organizations such as the United Nations.
• Engage actively with faculty and students, mentoring students, contributing to the intellectual life of SPIA, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Represent LISD and Princeton externally, enhancing the University’s visibility and impact in international academic and policy communities.
• Design and lead a high-profile speaker series, convening senior policymakers, diplomats, and scholars to examine European political developments, transatlantic relations, and global geopolitical trends.

• Advanced degree in public policy, economics, or a related field.
• Distinguished career in diplomacy, government, or international affairs, ideally with senior leadership experience (e.g., ambassadorial or equivalent level).
• Deep expertise in European politics and transatlantic relations, including areas such as geopolitics, trade, technology policy, immigration, and multilateral institutions.
• Demonstrated ability to lead high-level convenings and shape international policy dialogue.
• Strong record of thought leadership, including publications, public speaking, and participation in major policy or academic forums.
• Experience engaging with academic institutions, including collaboration with faculty and mentorship of students.
• Proven ability to build and sustain relationships across governments, international organizations, and academic communities.
• Excellent communication skills in English; French proficiency preferred.

Additional Information

Please submit CV and the contact information of one referee. Cover letter is optional.