Research Assistant to the Director - Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology (CMIST)

Carnegie Mellon University • Pittsburgh, PA

42d • $18 - $30 • Onsite

About The Position

CMIST is a university-wide institute that integrates Carnegie Mellon's leadership in computer science and engineering with its distinguished tradition of interdisciplinary research. Combining academic rigor with a think tank orientation, CMIST is dedicated to the responsible development, application, and governance of new and emerging technologies that are reshaping national and international security. Acting as a bridge across major research units, CMIST serves as the university's hub for education and scholarship in political science, strategy, and the future of war and peace. It fosters innovative thinking to inform new frameworks for addressing contemporary and long-term security challenges. The Director of the Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology (CMIST) at Carnegie Mellon University seeks up to two part-time research assistants to help with major analytical projects on Strategy and Technology. Candidates with strong research and writing abilities and expertise in national security, military history, political science, or a specific emerging technology (e.g., biotechnology, machine learning, artificial intelligence, advanced robotics or space-based systems) are highly encouraged to apply. This position will be located in Washington, D.C. Research Assistants will work directly with and report to the Director. These fixed-term positions are ideal for D.C.-based postdoctoral students, PhD candidates or Masters students seeking flexible work hours while advancing their knowledge of emerging technologies and national security. Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work. Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Requirements

• Interest in researching, analyzing, and writing on strategy and technology
• Good judgement on reliability of sources-i.e., able to differentiate between primary, secondary, and popular or superficial information
• Some background or knowledge of science and technology, especially emerging technologies and defense applications
• Bachelor's degree or higher in an area relevant to national security, strategy and technology (e.g., political science, history, strategic studies, international relations; or a relevant STEM area such as biology, computer science, or robotic engineering, etc.)
• Willingness to maintain confidentiality
• Computer competency, including but not limited to Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), Google Workplace (Gmail, contacts, calendar, docs, etc.), Zoom
• Willingness to go occasionally to the Washington Office of CMIST (located on Capitol Hill).
• A writing sample that also demonstrates advanced research skills is required.
• Responsible, self-disciplined worker who takes initiative and follows through
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered
• US citizenship is required for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Current Masters, PhD, or postdoctoral-level candidates and/or those with easy access to excellent library resources

Responsibilities

• Conduct high-quality research using online databases, in-person archives, and research libraries
• Locate and analyze hard-to-find sources, including tracking down works in local archives and/or the Library of Congress
• Write advanced summaries of major arguments and prominent sources (without relying primarily on LLMs)
• Draft literature reviews
• Support data collection, database management, and the conceptualization of data-supported research
• Conduct structured interviews with D.C.-based experts and policymakers
• Manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Exceptional organizational skills
• Strong writing and editing skills, including excellent grammar
• Careful attention to detail and meticulous fact-checking
• Ability to manage bibliographies, footnotes, endnotes, and other elements of complex manuscripts
• Ability to locate images or graphics to accompany publications
• Other editorial or administrative tasks as assigned

Benefits

• Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
• Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees