Research Assistant for Defence and Military Analysis Programme

International Institute for Strategic Studies; Greater London; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life Assurance

Private Medical Insurance

BUPA health cashback plan

Season Ticket Loan

Cycle scheme

Contributory Pension Scheme

Job summary

The International Institute for Strategic Studies is seeking a Research Assistant for its Defence and Military Analysis Programme in London. This full-time position involves data collection on defence procurement and analysis, requiring strong numerical and research skills, as well as a degree in strategic studies or related fields. The role offers a comprehensive benefits package and requires candidates to have a command of English and knowledge of another language. Applications close on 22 May 2026.

Qualifications

• Completion of degree related to strategic studies or military affairs.
• Experience of research using written and online sources.
• Shows discretion in respect of data-source quality.

Responsibilities

• Collect and assess data on defence budgets and procurement.
• Support research on defence industry and its dynamics.
• Assist DMAP projects requiring defence procurement data.

Skills

Strong numerical skills

Excellent command of spoken and written English

Research experience

Discretion and discernment

Working knowledge of a language other than English

Proficiency in Excel

Education

Undergraduate or postgraduate degree in strategic studies or military affairs

Job description

Research Assistant for Defence and Military Analysis Programme

Hours: Full time

Contract: Fixed-term, 12 months

Location: London

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is a defence and security think tank that has a deep understanding of regional geopolitics and geo-economics in a global context. Its international researchers provide best-in-class, independent and impartial analysis and offer insights on strategic challenges and priorities to governments and the private sector. It is expert at bringing together national leaders and senior policymakers in foreign policy, defence and security; promoting dialogue; and facilitating effective and influential bilateral and multilateral consultations.

The Institute is seeking to appoint a Research Assistant to work for the IISS Defence and Military Analysis Programme’s (DMAP) defence procurement team.

This position should appeal to individuals who have, or would like to acquire and use, detailed knowledge of defence procurement and industry. A working knowledge of at least one language other than English is essential.

Responsibilities:

• Collection and assessment of data on defence budgets, defence expenditures, defence procurement and international arms transfers.
• Support defence industry research by building out the database of defence industry data at the IISS to include company ownership and structure, capability focus, revenues, employees, senior staff and M&A activity.
• Support DMAP research and consultancy projects that require defence procurement data or analysis.

Requirements:

• Completion of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree course relating to strategic studies or military affairs, or a professional background in military or defence intelligence, or a background in defence industry or defence industry analysis.
• Excellent command of spoken and written English.
• Experience of research using written and online sources.
• Shows discretion and discernment in respect of data-source quality.
• Strong numerical skills to include a proficiency in Excel.
• Working knowledge of a language other than English.

Remuneration:

The IISS provides a full employment package. The benefits package at the Institute includes Life Assurance, Private Medical Insurance, BUPA health cashback plan, Season Ticket Loan, Cycle scheme and Contributory Pension Scheme. More information about the IISS can be found at www.iiss.org.

Application:

Candidates should press the blue 'apply now' button and follow the steps to submit two documents:

• A CV.
• A cover letter, stating their suitability for the role.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 22 May 2026.

Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we will be unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Due to the volume of expected applications, only those selected for interview will be contacted.

The IISS is an equal opportunities employer.