Research Fellow (East Asian Institute)

NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE; Singapore; On-site; SGD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading academic institution in Singapore is seeking a highly qualified Research Fellow to focus on Chinese politics and governance. The candidate will conduct in-depth research, engage in public commentary, and publish in reputable journals. A PhD in Political Science or a closely related field and at least 6 years of relevant experience are required. The role involves collaboration with academic and policy stakeholders, and organizing seminars and conferences. This is an excellent opportunity in a dynamic and multidisciplinary environment.

Benefits

Prestigious institute environment

Collaborative work setting

Multidisciplinary approach

Qualifications

• 6+ years of relevant experience in research or policy analysis.
• Experience in coordinating and organizing conferences and seminars.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research in Chinese politics and governance.
• Engage the public through commentary, op-eds, and public lectures.
• Publish in top academic journals.

Skills

Proficiency in analyzing research materials in Chinese

Project management skills

Collaborative team-player

Expertise in elite politics

Expertise in Communist Party operations

Expertise in law-based governance

Education

PhD in Political Science or related field

Job description

Interested applicants are invited to apply directly at the NUSCareer Portal

Your application will be processed only if you apply via NUS Career Portal

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Job Description

The East Asian Institute (EAI) at the National University of Singapore is seeking a highly qualified Research Fellow with expertise in Chinese politics and governance to join our multidisciplinary team.

About EAI: Established in 1997, the East Asian Institute (EAI) promotes academic and policy-oriented research on East Asian development. Our work spans contemporary China (including Hong Kong and Taiwan) and China’s economic and technological relations with Japan, Korea, ASEAN, and the world. We collaborate with regional and international institutions, convene conferences, and provide insights that inform public policy.

Position

• Research Fellow
• Field: Chinese Politics and Governance

Role and Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research in Chinese politics and governance
• Contribute to EAI’s Background Briefs for a policy‑maker audience
• Engage the public through commentary, op‑eds, and public lectures
• Publish in top academic journals and on other highly reputable platforms
• Build partnerships with academic, industry, and policy stakeholders
• Contribute to the coordination and organization of EAI’s seminars, conferences and other relevant research projects (e.g. production of EAI’s journals or joint research reports)

Requirements

• PhD in Political Science or a closely related field (e.g., Public Policy, Political Economy, International Relations, Law)
• 6+ years of relevant experience in research or policy analysis
• Proficiency in accessing, reading, and analyzing research materials written in Chinese, as required by the nature of the role
• Experience in coordinating and organizing conferences and seminars
• Collaborative team‑player with strong project management skills
• Demonstrable expertise in two or more of the following:
• Elite politics
• Institutions and operations of the Communist Party and government
• Central‑local relations
• Law‑based governance
• Regulation of society and the economy

What We Offer

• Centre of Excellence: Join a prestigious institute recognized for impactful analysis and research
• Dynamic Environment: Work in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating setting
• Multidisciplinary Approach: Engage with experts across political science, economics, public policy and sociology
• Unique Geopolitical Position: Leverage Singapore’s role as a bridge between East and West to amplify research impact across governance and the digital economy

Application Process

• CV
• Cover letter
• Two samples of published work (academic or policy‑oriented)

Application Deadline: 15 January, 2026