JOB SUMMARY:

The CSIS Middle East Program seeks a creative, hard-working, and energetic individual to contribute significantly to the research and programmatic agenda of the program as a research fellow. This position is not term-limited.

The successful candidate for this position will have a superb grounding in Middle East studies, exceptional analytical skills, and an entrepreneurial bent. The candidate will also be proactive and skilled at balancing a diverse array of tasks. He/she will have demonstrably superior skills in research and writing, project management, and teamwork, and have demonstrated interest in and knowledge of public policy and policy processes. The position will report to the Director of the Middle East Program and will work closely with the program’s Deputy Director, Associate Director, and research assistants and interns.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Responsibilities include leading and supporting various aspects of research and program activities, including but not limited to:

• Developing, organizing, and executing original research projects, both individually and in collaboration with the Program Director and Deputy Director
• Generating and developing ideas for new projects, partnerships, collaborations, and events
• Advancing program partnerships and development efforts through interactions with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds
• Supporting the work of the Program Director and Deputy Director by providing critical feedback, research support and writing for publications, multimedia, and speaking engagements
• Editing and fact-checking program materials with a critical perspective and strong attention to detail
• Contributing to the planning, management, execution, and follow-up for special projects and programs, conferences, and other events
• Collaborating on administrative tasks as needed

Required qualifications:

• A master’s degree in Middle East Studies, International Affairs, Political Science, or a related field, or its equivalent, and demonstrated expertise in the Middle East
• A record of research, writing, and communication about the Middle East, whether as a regional generalist or a specialist in a particular country or countries
• Experience studying or working in the Middle East
• Broad curiosity about the Middle East and a willingness to work on a variety of topics, sometimes simultaneously
• Superior writing ability and experience editing others’ writing for substance, structure, clarity, and grammar
• Superior communication skills and professional poise
• Strong organization and time management skills
• Proficiency in at least one regional language (Arabic, Hebrew, or Persian)
• Eagerness to be part of a hard-working team that is passionate about the Middle East

Strongly preferred qualifications:

• Experience planning and conducting research in the Middle East
• Demonstrated excellence working on a team
• Understanding of the policymaking process
• Experience moving written work from draft to publication stage, including experience copy-editing in accordance with a house style guide and designing or laying out publications

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK CONDITIONS:

The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Performances of duties require the use of hands and fingers to handle or feel. The job frequently requires ability to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms and talk or hear.  Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

To apply, interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample at

https://www5.apply2jobs.com/CSIS.