Research Assistant, Middle East

Who We Are

Peace is our commitment. The United States Institute of Peace represents the American people's shared values and commitment to peace worldwide. We know that Peace is Security - it advances both U.S. and international security by preventing, managing, and mitigating violent conflict.

We are an independent, non-partisan institution and are actively engaged with peacebuilding efforts worldwide. Together we tackle the most challenging problems and hold fast to the possibility of a more peaceful world. To learn more about USIP programs and job openings, go to

If you have a passion for making the world a better place and want to have a front-row seat on the world stage, USIP is the place for you .

JOB BRIEF

Provides research, analysis and administrative support for the "Agents, Actors and Ideas of Conflict in the Middle East and Africa" program, primarily "The Iran Primer" and "The Islamists" websites. Conducts research on Islamist movements, Iran and the Middle East.

Hours

Up to 20 hours per week during regular business hours starting as soon as Late August 2024 with the possibility of extension into the spring semester.

Hourly rate: Range of $17 to $18 an hour. Rate to be determined depending on education.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Generate content for two Middle East websites - The Iran Primer - and The Islamists
• Conduct research on relevant topics for both sites and the senior fellow
• Monitor current events closely in Iran and the wider Middle East
• Update existing resources, including timelines and profiles
• Provide web layout support by creating infographics and finding photographs and other media
• Help promote websites online, including through use of social media
• Provide programmatic and administrative support for program
• Complete special assignments as needed

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be a full-time university student
• Coursework towards a Bachelor's and/or Master's degree in international relations, Middle East studies or related field preferred.
• Strong working knowledge of the Middle East required, with demonstrated enthusiasm for subject matter. Knowledge of the full cast of characters in the region.
• Excellent writing and communications skills preferred.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; excellent organizational skills; flexibility; strong detail orientation.
• Familiarity with standard office software, online research databases and social media platforms preferred.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines.

USIP's Research Assistant program is administered through the Consortium of Universities in the Washington Metropolitan area. However, any full-time university student is eligible (local or within the US) for these openings.

All USIP contract and employee positions are contingent upon the favorable completion of a suitability background investigation.

HOW TO APPLY To be considered for this position, please submit a complete application package consisting of:

1.Cover letter
2.Resume

Only those applicants that are selected for further discussions will be contacted.

No Phone Calls. Interviews will be scheduled by appointment only.

USIP is an equal opportunity employer. USIP does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit-based factors.