Preparing the Future Research Fellowship with Caritas Internationalis (CI) (Rome, Italy)

About the role

Duration: 10 Months (September 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027) Location: Rome, Italy Affiliation: Research Associate of the University of Notre Dame Rome Sponsors: Caritas Internationalis, Notre Dame Rome, the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, the Catholic Peacebuilding Network (CPN), and the Nanovic Institute for European Studies. This fellowship is part of a strategic effort to produce comprehensive guidelines that support Caritas organizations worldwide. The fellow will help these organizations adapt their programming, advocacy, and fundraising strategies to a shifting global landscape marked by foreign aid cuts, conflict proliferation, and geopolitical competition.

Responsibilities

• The fellow will be seconded to Caritas Internationalis (CI) , working under the direct supervision of the CI Director of Integral Human Development. Primary tasks include:
• Research & Analysis: Review existing literature from regional/national Caritas offices and analyze survey responses regarding the IHD framework.
• Landscape Assessment: Present an overview of the fundamental changes in the NGO operating environment (programming, advocacy, and fundraising).
• Strategic Development: Identify key IHD components requiring deeper understanding and highlight the comparative advantages the IHD framework provides in a competitive environment.
• Document Production: * Produce an analytical index for the IHD guidelines.
• Co-write the first draft of the guidelines (to be presented November 2026).
• Manage the feedback and revision process (January-February 2027).
• Finalize the English version of the document (by April 2027) for the Caritas Confederation General Assembly.
• Engagement with the University of Notre Dame
• While the primary daily scope is determined by CI, the fellow will dedicate one month (total) to projects benefiting the University of Notre Dame, including:
• Public Programming: Help organize a lecture or panel co-sponsored by CI and Notre Dame Rome before June 30, 2027.
• Publications: Submit a blog post (750-1,000 words) or comparable piece for publication by the fellowship sponsors.
• Knowledge Sharing: Participate in relevant webinars, podcasts, or classes as invited by Notre Dame sponsors.
• Professional & Vocational Development
• The fellowship is designed to support the researcher's professional growth and sense of vocation through:
• Mentorship: Monthly meetings with representatives from the Catholic Peacebuilding Network and Notre Dame Rome.
• Specialist Access: Consultations with experts from the Kroc Institute and the Nanovic Institute.
• Spiritual & Ecclesial Growth: Regular opportunities to engage with the rich resources available in Rome.
• Career Guidance: Opportunities to consult with sponsors to identify post-fellowship roles within Catholic organizations or other global entities.
• Supervision
• Supervision is a joint effort between Caritas Internationalis , Notre Dame Rome , the Catholic Peacebuilding Network , and the Nanovic Institute . CI will serve as the primary supervisor for daily operations.
• Minimum Requirements
• Education: A Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., International Relations, Theology, Peace Studies, Development).
• Language: Fluency in English is required. Proficiency in French, Spanish, or Italian is an asset but not required.
• Mission Alignment: Demonstrated knowledge of and commitment to the Catholic faith and Catholic Social Teaching (CST) .
• Institutional Literacy: An interest in and ability to work effectively within the Vatican and other Church institutions.
• Communication: Exceptional research and writing skills in English.
• Location: Willingness to relocate to Rome for the duration of the fellowship.

Requirements

• Diplomatic Skills: Strong interpersonal and intercultural skills necessary for engaging with the global Catholic community, governments, international institutions, and NGOs.
• Career Goals: A clear interest in working for the Church as a vocational and career path.
• Application Requirements
• Interested applicants should submit the following materials for consideration:
• Cover Letter: Detailing your interest in the position, relevant skills and experience, and specific issue areas of interest.
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae: A comprehensive overview of your academic and professional background.
• Writing Sample: A recent publication or other professional writing sample that demonstrates your research and composition abilities.
• Compensation: €32,000

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