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

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Overview

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.

 

Key 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.