World Resources Institute WRI Data Ethics & Governance Analyst 2026: $69,000–$82,000 Salary in Washington, DC
Overview
The World Resources Institute (WRI) is recruiting a Data Ethics and Governance Analyst for its Data Lab in Washington, D.C. The post is full-time for 18 months (job requisition 2026-JR100458) and forms part of the 2026-28 Civic Science Fellows program, a learning community of researchers, community leaders, public-interest organizations and funders. The work addresses data sovereignty in the age of AI and benefit-sharing in open data and open-source systems.
The arrangement is hybrid, with eight office days per month. Applicants must already have work authorization because WRI cannot sponsor visas, and must live in Washington, D.C., Maryland or Virginia when employment begins.
What you will do
About 30 percent of the role is research and analysis, covering topics such as data ownership, attribution, rights to control data use and revenue or benefit-sharing, turned into clear options and recommendations. Roughly 25 percent is stakeholder and community research, including interviews with experts, practitioners and community representatives. About 20 percent is data strategy and project delivery, such as supporting data governance meetings and guidance. The remaining 25 percent is the fellowship, with peer exchanges, Fellows Labs, convenings and a fellowship project co-designed with WRI.
Requirements
Applicants need a bachelor's degree in a field such as public policy, social science, environmental studies, information science, data or technology studies or law, though relevant experience may substitute. At least three years of full-time professional experience is required, including research or project management and experience in data governance, data ethics, responsible data, technology governance or digital policy. Environmental, conservation or natural-resource data experience is desirable.
What you get
The salary range for US-based candidates is 69,000 to 82,000 dollars. WRI also offers access to its global network, training, flexible hybrid working, generous leave and, for US staff, medical, dental and vision cover and retirement plan access.
How to apply
Submit a resume and cover letter through the WRI Careers portal. The vacancy may close early if many qualified applications arrive, and the start should fit the cohort beginning in late September 2026.
Key dates
The deadline is September 18, 2026.