JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS: Research Assistant, Center for Middle East Policy

posted on: Jun 23, 2015

BASIC FUNCTION

Provides research assistance and administrative support within the Center for Middle East Policy (CMEP) in the Foreign Policy (FP) program at Brookings. Conducts research on Middle Eastern politics and U.S. policy toward the Middle East with specific focus on Iran; assists with posting materials to Brookings website; and provides general administrative support to the Center and scholars for events and programs.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree in relevant subject required. Master’s degree in international affairs, political science, or related area with emphasis on Middle East politics, preferred. Minimum two years of relevant work experience required. Must be currently authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS

Knowledge of middle eastern affairs, preferred. Fluent English speaking, writing, and reading skills required. Persian language skills preferred; competence in other regional languages will be considered. Strong academic record, outstanding research, communication (oral and written), and analytical skills required. Superb organizational and interpersonal skills; poise, tact, discretion and mature judgment to handle and respond appropriately and professionally in high-pressure atmosphere while multi-tasking and completing tasks in a timely manner. Ability to work independently or as part of a team; ability to effectively utilize the Internet, as well as demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

50% Research Assistance

• Conducts relevant research for Fellows, Senior Fellows, and Visiting Fellows as assigned.
• Reads relevant literature as directed; monitors regional media including regional language sources; prepares written summaries and analyses of relevant research areas.
• Collects and analyzes information; assembles relevant material including press reports, interviews, government data, documents, seminars, and reports from a wide variety of sources including academic literature, library and Internet searches, the local media, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), journalists, diplomats, and others in the field.
• Writes summary reports, briefing memos, bibliographies and chronologies; compiles abstracts, analyses, summaries, and synthesizes books and articles.
• Attends and writes summary reports of outside policy briefings, conferences, forums, and symposiums.
• Updates and checks existing data and footnotes; helps with editing and proofreading of publications; posts material to Brookings website.

50% Administrative Support

• Works with CMEP staff, FP, and Central Communications Department to support events.
• Provides administrative, communications, and logistical support to Fellows, Senior Fellows, and Visiting Fellows as assigned; schedules appointments and makes travel arrangements; copy edits and proofreads as needed; prepares and edits correspondence and memos from verbal instruction.
• Maintains paper and electronic files and databases of materials on relevant topics.
• Works with other Brookings staff to prepare and revise content to update web pages of Fellows, Senior Fellows, and Visiting Fellows with new research, event information, and other Brookings webpages as assigned.
• Provides general assistance for the Center as needed.

Brookings is an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, veteran status, or other factors protected by law. Successful completion of a background investigation is required for employment at Brookings. No phone calls please.