Middle East Security Researcher — Open-Source Policy

understandingwar; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) seeks a Middle East Researcher to conduct open‑source analysis of geo‑strategic dynamics in the Middle East and assess implications for U.S. national security. The Researcher will publish insights to inform policymakers and support ISW’s mission.

Based in Washington, DC, the role requires strong Arabic language skills, excellent writing, and the ability to mentor interns while collaborating with teams across related security programs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in a field related to national security or Middle East studies.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Excellent written English communication.
• Strong analytical and research capabilities.
• Arabic fluency in reading and speaking.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert analysis on dynamic conflicts within the Middle East portfolio by synthesizing open‑source information on political and security developments.
• Capture and analyze granular information on these developments, including implications of regional dynamics.
• Work closely with teams studying China and Russia to generate insights into regional and cross‑border trends.
• Aim to keep policymakers informed about ground situations, inflection points, developments affecting U.S. interests, and potential policy options.
• Gain proficiency in data‑driven analytic software platforms to support investigations into complex research questions.
• Publish findings through timely written and graphical reports and oral briefings.
• Provide synthetic research support to long‑term projects and forecasts to team members and programs as required.
• Coach, mentor, and manage research interns and collaborate with team members.
• Help edit and oversee daily and short‑form written intelligence products to ensure adherence to institutional writing standards.
• Validate compliance with proper data handling and storage guidelines.

Skills

Excellent writing

Independent research

Briefing skills

Presentation skills

Arabic language

Qualitative analysis

Collaboration

Media experience

Tech in research

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) seeks a Middle East Researcher to conduct open‑source analysis of geo‑strategic dynamics in the Middle East and assess implications for U.S. national security. The Researcher will publish insights to inform policymakers and support ISW’s mission.

Based in Washington, DC, the role requires strong Arabic language skills, excellent writing, and the ability to mentor interns while collaborating with teams across related security programs.