Research Assistant: Foreign and Defense Policy; Demographics and Political Economy

American Enterprise Institute • Washington, DC

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) seeks a full-time, in-person research assistant to work with international political economy scholar Nicholas Eberstadt. The position’s major responsibilities include conducting research on topics in demographics and political economy. Assignments will include data collection and analysis, and administrative duties will include scheduling and organizing events, among other responsibilities. The anticipated start date for this position is as soon as possible. Soon-to-be graduates are welcome to apply. This position requires outstanding qualitative and quantitative research skills, particularly strong experience with data analysis and the ability to solve problems independently. Proficiency in Python, R, or Stata is required. Skills in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint are preferred. Qualified candidates will have a demonstrated interest in topics pertaining to demographics and international political economy and be well organized, intellectually curious, and strong writers. Qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter demonstrating interest in AEI’s mission, academic transcript, and 500-word writing sample on any topic.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in economics, political economy, mathematics, or statistics (required)
• 0–2 years of previous experience, through either an internship or a paid position
• Proficiency in Python, R, or Stata (required)
• Data analysis skills (required)
• Strong writing and editing skills, excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and facility with deadlines

Nice To Haves

• Skills in Microsoft PowerPoint and Excel (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Research, write, and edit to support research and policy papers, studies, and reports on demographics, political economy, and economics.
• Collect and analyze data, provide background research, and write memos.
• Help plan, organize, and coordinate major public events and private meetings by inviting speakers, drafting public invitations, preparing materials, and coordinating all logistics with AEI’s Events department and media team.
• Manage long-term scholarly projects by drafting proposals, mapping timelines, and preparing regular progress reports for AEI management.
• Coordinate various activities and ensure proper communication among AEI departments and teams including Government Relations, Academic Programs, Development, and media.
• Manage logistics and administrative tasks, including scheduling, tracking expenses, and planning and staffing public-facing events, private meetings, and roundtables.

Benefits

• 18 days of paid leave (15 days of paid annual leave and 3 personal/floating holidays)
• 12 days of paid sick leave
• Paid family leave
• Medical and dental coverage
• Health savings account
• Medical and dependent care FSA
• Tuition assistance program of up to $5,200
• Life and disability insurance at no cost to employees
• 403b retirement plan with a contribution from AEI

What This Job Offers

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