Research Assistant/Analyst, Strategic Initiatives

Democracy Forward•Washington, DC

12d•$75,000 - $90,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Democracy Forward Foundation is seeking a mission-driven researcher to join its Strategic Initiatives team. The role involves tracking and assessing the activities of the right-wing legal movement and coordinated efforts to undermine liberal democracy in the United States. The Research Assistant will identify and track trends, maintain and develop data systems, create timely and insightful analysis, and support collaboration with external stakeholders to translate data into action. This is a full-time position based in Washington, DC, with flexibility for remote work, requiring regular in-office presence (8 times per month) or travel to DC 1-2 times per quarter for remote candidates. The application deadline is July 23, 2026.

Requirements

For Research Assistant: 0-2 years of experience working in research, policy, or legal environments and/or organizations that work at the intersection of government, law, and policy.
For Research Analyst: 3+ years of experience working in research, policy, or legal environments and/or organizations that work at the intersection of government, law, and policy.
Demonstrated experience with legal, policy, and media databases and tools, including Westlaw, Docket Alarm, PACER, AirTable, Muck Rack, and Google News.
Experience managing data projects and research functions.
Experience working on teams in a collaborative structure.
Demonstrated excellence in organizational and communication skills.
Excellent writing skills and attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple, competing deadlines and priorities.
Commitment to democracy and social progress.
Well-developed collaborative and interpersonal skills including demonstrated self-awareness, commitment to diversity and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures and backgrounds.

Responsibilities

Support efforts to track, analyze, and report on the organization and litigation strategies of the right-wing legal movement and its efforts to undermine democratic institutions and the rule of law.
Work with policy and research staff to maintain timely, accurate, and robust information about these and other legal and policy trends across a range of progressive issues.
Collaborate with all teams across the organization to develop useful analyses and synthesis of data on emerging threats to liberal democracy, including litigation trends, personnel networks, and coordinated policy campaigns.
Stay abreast of current events and the legal and policy landscape related to anti-democratic activities in the United States, including the activities of right-wing legal organizations, dark money funders, and state-level actors.
Prepare briefings for internal staff as well as external stakeholders, such as partner organizations.
Support efforts to collaborate and develop partnerships that enhance and strengthen Democracy Forward’s impact, including those seeking to understand and counter threats in the legal and policy landscape.