Research Assistant

Confidential Jobs; Sharjah; On-site; AED 60,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research entity is looking for a Research Assistant to support projects on Arabic culture and history. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background in relevant fields, fluency in Arabic and English, and experience in field research. Responsibilities include data collection, literature reviews, interviewing, and preparing research documentation. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to significant cultural insights and scholarly work.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of Arabic heritage and culture.
• Fluent in Arabic and English, written and spoken.
• Knowledge of classical Arabic and regional dialects is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and executing research studies.
• Conduct extensive literature reviews and maintain organized research notes.
• Prepare interview questions, recruit participants, and ensure ethical compliance.

Skills

Research Ethics

Analytical Methods

Data Collection

Qualitative Analysis

Fluency in Arabic

Fluency in English

Education

Bachelor’s degree in History, Cultural Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, Anthropology

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

Role Overview

The Research Assistant will support academic and field research projects focused on Arabic culture and history. This role involves assisting with data collection, literature reviews, interviews, archival work, and the preparation of publications and reports. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong understanding of Arabic heritage, research ethics, and analytical methods, while maintaining meticulous documentation and upholding confidentiality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Research Execution & Data Collection

• Assist in the planning and execution of research studies in the field of Arabic culture and history.
• Collect, record, code, and verify qualitative and quantitative data accurately in line with approved methodologies.
• Travel to relevant field sites to gather data, conduct interviews, and access historical archives or cultural institutions.

Literature Review & Documentation

• Conduct extensive literature reviews on assigned topics related to Arabic culture, language, traditions, and historical events.
• Maintain accurate, organized research notes, records, transcripts, and archives.

Interviewing & Field Work

• Prepare structured and semi-structured interview questions in accordance with project goals.
• Recruit, schedule, and conduct interviews with key individuals, including historians, scholars, cultural custodians, or community members.
• Ensure confidentiality, informed consent, and ethical compliance in all interviews and participant engagements.
• Safeguard audio/visual recordings and data obtained through fieldwork.

Reporting & Communication

• Assist in drafting and editing research summaries, technical reports, and academic articles.
• Support the preparation of conference presentations, visual materials, and internal updates.
• Manage and respond to project-related communications, including email correspondence with collaborators and research subjects.
• Contribute to historical and cultural analysis, ensuring factual accuracy and scholarly integrity.

Data Management & Analysis

• Enter data into research databases, spreadsheets, or digital archives.
• Assist in basic analysis and interpretation of research findings under supervision.
• Conduct quality control reviews of collected data and documentation.

Operational Support

• Attend team meetings, academic seminars, and project planning sessions.
• Calibrate and maintain research tools, audio recording equipment, and digital storage solutions.
• Support logistical coordination for site visits, interviews, or archival access.
• Perform other job-related tasks as required to support the broader goals of the research project.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in History, Cultural Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, Anthropology, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Fluent in Arabic and English (written and spoken)
• Knowledge of classical Arabic and regional dialects is a plus