Graduate Research Assistant - MSIR

Troy University; Troy (MI); On-site; USD 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

A university in Michigan is seeking a highly motivated Graduate Research Assistant to support research activities. The successful candidate will conduct literature reviews, assist with data collection, and draft academic manuscripts and policy briefs. Ideal for graduate students with strong analytical and writing skills interested in academic research and international affairs. This position offers mentorship opportunities and is best suited for students considering research careers.

Qualifications

• Enrolled Master of International Relations student in good standing.
• Strong ability to synthesize complex academic material.
• Demonstrated interest in international relations or a related field.
• Demonstrated interest in international relations, political science, area studies, or a related field.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and reliability.

Responsibilities

• Conduct literature reviews and background research.
• Assist with data collection and organization.
• Support drafting of academic manuscripts and policy briefs.
• Track developments related to regional politics, security, and international affairs.
• Compile annotated bibliographies and research memoranda.
• Assist with preparation of presentations, conference materials, and research summaries.
• Support collaborative research projects involving multiple faculty members.

Skills

Research skills

Writing skills

Analytical skills

Synthesis of complex material

Synthesis

Education

Master of International Relations

Tools

Academic databases (JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science)

Citation management software (Zotero, EndNote)

Web of Science

Zotero

EndNote

Job description

Job Summary

The Center for Eastern and Central European, Russian, and Eurasian Studies ( CECERES ) at Troy University seeks a highly motivated Graduate Research Assistant to support the research activities of the Center Director and affiliated faculty. This position is designed for graduate students with strong analytical and writing skills who are interested in academic research, policy analysis, and international affairs.

About the Center

The Center for Eastern and Central European, Russian, and Eurasian Studies is an interdisciplinary research center focused on the politics, security, history, and societies of Eastern and Central Europe, Russia, and Eurasia. The Center supports faculty and student research, hosts scholarly and public events, and contributes to policy-relevant debates through research dissemination and external engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct literature reviews and background research for faculty and Director‑led projects.
• Assist with data collection and organization, including qualitative and quantitative sources.
• Support drafting and editing of academic manuscripts, policy briefs, reports, and grant applications.
• Track developments related to regional politics, security, and international affairs.
• Compile annotated bibliographies and research memorandum.
• Assist with preparation of presentations, conference materials, and research summaries.
• Support collaborative research projects involving multiple faculty members.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be a currently enrolled Master of International Relations graduate student in good standing at Troy University.
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Ability to synthesize complex academic and policy material clearly and accurately.
• Demonstrated interest in international relations, political science, area studies, or a related field.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and reliability.

Preferred Qualifications

• Coursework or background in Eastern European, Russian, or Eurasian studies.
• Experience with academic databases such as JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science.
• Foreign language skills relevant to the region (e.g., Russian or other regional languages).
• Experience with citation management software (e.g., Zotero, EndNote).
• Prior experience assisting faculty research or contributing to academic publications.
• Professional Development Opportunities: This position offers close mentorship with faculty, exposure to advanced research methods, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to publications and policy‑relevant research. It is particularly well suited for students considering doctoral study, research careers, or work in policy and analytical institutions.

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of References
• Unofficial Transcript 1

Optional Documents

• Letter of Reference 1
• Letter of Reference 2
• Unofficial Transcript 2

Work Hours

Maximum of 20 hours per week

Hazardous Conditions / Physical Demands

N/A

Equal Employment Opportunity

Employment is contingent upon a satisfactory background check. Troy University is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affidavit Action employer. Troy University participates in eVerify.