Fellow & Project Manager for Imagery Analysis - iDeas Lab

Job Summary The Andreas C. Dracopoulos iDeas Lab, the award‑winning creative and digital production department at CSIS, continues to be the gold standard for innovation in the global think‑tank space by using cutting‑edge multimedia production to bring policy research to life. We seek an imagery and geospatial expert to join our team as a Fellow & Project Manager for Imagery Analysis, responsible for leading the vision, strategy, and execution of imagery analysis across CSIS. This role serves as a thought leader and subject matter expert, driving innovative applications of geospatial analysis in policy research. The Fellow leads major projects, develops new analytical frameworks, and represents CSIS externally through publications, media engagement, and partnerships. Ideal candidates have at least 7 years of experience with satellite imagery tools, techniques, analysis, and research support experience. They must be motivated, detail‑oriented, problem‑solvers who enjoy a wide variety of analytic task work and possess excellent research, writing, project management, and communication skills. The successful candidate will have strong initiative and ability to anticipate needs, an aptitude for collaboration with a multi‑disciplinary team, strong ability to balance competing priorities, and the ability to multi‑task in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment while meeting tight deadlines. The minimum salary for this position is $75,000. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Lead and define the strategic direction of imagery analysis initiatives across the organization. Design, oversee, and execute complex, high‑impact geospatial research projects from concept through publication. Manage end‑to‑end project workflows, including scoping, timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder coordination, Order, process, and analyze multispectral imagery datasets. Develop and implement advanced analytical methodologies and workflows for satellite imagery and geospatial analysis. Produce and oversee a range of written products, including short commentaries and long major reports. Serve as a primary spokesperson and subject matter expert, including media engagement and public presentations. Identify emerging trends and shape research agendas in satellite imagery and geospatial intelligence. Build and manage external partnerships with data providers, academic institutions, and government stakeholders. Oversee a portfolio of projects, ensuring quality, consistency, and strategic alignment. Drive innovation in multimedia storytelling, integrating imagery analysis into cutting‑edge formats. Lead business development efforts, including proposal strategy, fundraising support, and donor engagement. Establish and maintain best practices, standards, and quality control frameworks for imagery analysis. Manage a range of administrative tasks, including vendor and usage tracking, project tracking, proofreading, and project proposals. Work closely with the senior imagery fellow to coordinate meetings and manage schedules. Knowledge, Education, and Experience Bachelor’s degree in relevant field and 7+ years of relevant experience (advanced degree in relevant field strongly preferred). Deep expertise in satellite imagery analysis, geospatial intelligence, and analytic methodologies. Advanced proficiency in ArcGIS/QGIS and imagery processing platforms (e.g., ERDAS Imagine, GXP, Google Earth Engine). Demonstrated record of published, high‑impact research. Experience leading large, complex, and multi‑stakeholder projects. Experience engaging with senior policymakers, media, or public audiences. Ability to set strategic direction and identify new research opportunities. Excellent communication skills across technical and non‑technical audiences. Non‑English language skills a plus. Physical Requirements and Work Conditions The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee working in an office environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Equal Opportunity Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. We are an equal opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr CSIS Middle East Program