Research Assistant/Associate

Center for a New American Security • Washington, DC

11d • $55,000 - $65,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Center for a New American Security (CNAS) seeks to hire a Research Assistant/Associate to join the Indo-Pacific Security Program (IPS). Candidates with a demonstrated interest in U.S. foreign and defense policy toward the Indo-Pacific region are encouraged to apply. Strong administrative and program management skills are required. Policy-relevant knowledge regarding trends in the Indo-Pacific security environment related to the China challenge and regional U.S. alliances, partnerships, and multilateral groupings (Japan, India, South Korea, the Quad, AUKUS, etc.) is a plus.
Candidates should be self-starters comfortable working as part of a small, close-knit team in a fast-paced work environment. An ability to manage complex administrative tasks with diligent attention to detail is critical.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree.
• Exceptional organizational skills, initiative, and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated interest in national security issues and a foundational understanding of Indo-Pacific security affairs.
• Strong writing skills, including good grammar and diligent self-editing and fact checking.
• Ardent, sustained commitment to supporting the Indo-Pacific Security Program through completing a significant amount of administrative work.
• The ability to learn quickly and work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong multitasking and time management skills, as well as an ability to juggle multiple projects and competing priorities.
• General familiarity with U.S. foreign and defense policy institutions, including the Departments of State and Defense, the U.S. military, and national security terms and research resources.
• Good judgment, especially regarding the quality of data and competing information sources.
• Steadfast commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
• Competency in or a genuine willingness to learn various computer programs, including Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), Slack, Salesforce, and Zoom.
• A strong sense of ethical professionalism.
• Collegial demeanor and commitment to collaboratively finding solutions.
• Legal right to work in the United States.
• Based in Washington, D.C. or willing to relocate upon job offer.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in a relevant area of study.
• Experience researching, analyzing, and writing on Indo-Pacific security.
• Project management experience.
• Foreign language skills in relevant geographic areas.
• 2+ years of full-time relevant work experience (required for Research Associate applicants).

Responsibilities

• Draft project proposals and grant applications in coordination with IPS staff.
• Develop and manage project timelines, tasks, and budgets.
• Draft interim and final grant narrative reports.
• Liaise with the CNAS development team to manage contact lists and support donor engagement.
• Manage IPS communications, such as project/program web pages and email campaigns.
• Conduct literature reviews, in-depth research, and analysis on Indo-Pacific topics to further the program’s research agenda.
• Plan and participate in roundtables, workshops, and interviews to engage with policymakers, experts, and stakeholders.
• Develop actionable policy recommendations.
• Communicate research and recommendations through written and verbal products, such as op-eds, public events, and media interviews.
• Participate in occasional international travel for in-person research engagements.
• Publish op-eds, journal articles, or short analyses such as commentaries and blog entries in external outlets, driven by the news cycle.
• Co-author CNAS papers and reports.
• Edit CNAS papers and reports for substance, style, and layout, including citations.
• Manage team publication schedules and deadlines.
• Coordinate with outside authors as needed.
• Collaborate with CNAS staff to develop compelling graphics and data visualizations.
• Help promote IPS research among target audiences.
• Manage the planning and execution of private roundtables and public events with senior leaders.
• Design, plan, and execute events by: Compiling invite lists and managing RSVPs. Formulating event agendas, including themes and speakers. Drafting and sending personalized event invitations. Overseeing event logistics, such as venues, virtual platforms (e.g., Zoom), catering, etc., in conjunction with CNAS staff.
• Coordinate with senior government and subject matter expert external speakers and their staffs.
• Manage the team’s calendar of meetings and events, including calendar support for the Program Director and Deputy Director.
• Create meeting agendas, take notes, and track associated tasks.
• Arrange business travel and accommodations.
• Compile expense reports and file internal invoices for external honoraria and consultant fees.
• Assist in the IPS intern hiring process and mentor IPS interns.
• Participate in interviews and other personnel processes.
• Attend internal meetings and represent CNAS at outside events.
• Contribute to professional development and mentorship activities.
• Assist in networking, messaging, and outreach about CNAS, IPS, and its products.
• Attend and staff CNAS events and activities as needed.

Benefits

• medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, 403(b) retirement accounts, transportation subsidies, and an employee assistance program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level