Research Analyst (China Studies Program)

CNA; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization as a Research Analyst in the China Studies Program, where you will leverage your Mandarin skills and analytical expertise to tackle pressing military and security issues related to the People's Republic of China. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful research that informs decision-makers in the Navy and Marine Corps, among other clients. You will work collaboratively in a dynamic environment, developing your professional skills while engaging in meaningful projects that shape the understanding of complex geopolitical challenges. If you are passionate about China studies and eager to make a difference, this position is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required; PhD preferred in relevant fields.
• Experience in research and analysis, ideally with China or Taiwan.

Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to projects on PRC military and security issues.
• Communicate research results clearly and concisely.

Skills

Mandarin Chinese language skills

Analytic curiosity

Critical thinking skills

Research techniques

Interpersonal communication

Organizational skills

Education

Master's degree in relevant field

PhD in relevant field

Job description

Research Analyst (China Studies Program)

CNA’s China and Indo Pacific Affairs (CIP) division is looking for a Research Analyst to be part of their China Studies Program team. We are looking for candidates that have professional level Mandarin language capabilities and who specialize in China studies, to work on projects that focus on military and security issues related to the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

Staff at this level will lead smaller/less complex activities or will serve as an important contributing team member on projects focused on PRC military and security issues, including work on the political, military, diplomatic, economic, technological, informational, nuclear, space, and cyber domains.

The CIP division supports the Navy and Marine Corps, as well as other DOD sponsors by providing timely, data-based analyses on a wide range of security issues across the Indo-Pacific region, providing decision-makers the context they need to make informed choices and plans.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND/OR DUTIES

1. With minimal or no guidance, meets CNA’s quality standards when working on well-structured pieces of a project. Demonstrates ability to develop sound analytic frameworks and associated analytic methodologies/techniques for addressing both structured and unstructured problems.
2. Develops and maintains broad, general institutional knowledge of primary clients/sponsors; their culture, organization, and issues.
3. Contributes productively and harmoniously to the work of others; treats everyone respectfully, professionally, and fairly. Keeps others informed and proactively identifies and seeks out others working on similar topics.
4. Supports business development efforts and/or marketing activities by maintaining strong client relationships through high-quality work.
5. Interacts with sponsors/clients under the supervision of an experienced colleague, and with study POCs independently.
6. Makes significant contributions to research publications and analytic products for individual projects.
7. Demonstrates ability to communicate results of work in a clear and concise fashion.
8. Works with minimal or no guidance on focused, well-structured pieces of projects.
9. Exhibits a positive attitude in interactions with colleagues and clients/sponsors.
10. Performs other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

1. Education: Minimum Master’s degree in a relevant field, PhD preferred. Relevant degree fields may include—but are not limited to—China studies, Asia studies, Indo-Pacific studies, political science, security studies, economics, and foreign policy.
2. Experience: Typical minimum requirements Ph.D. & 0+ years or Master’s & 2+ years of experience in research and analysis. Time spent living and studying or working in China or Taiwan preferred.
3. Skills:
   • Professional-level Mandarin Chinese language skills strongly desired.
   • Ability to make significant contributions to projects/analyses.
   • Strong analytic curiosity/creativity.
   • Ability to operate independently in the execution of assignments.
   • Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment.
   • Strong critical thinking skills.
   • Knowledge of research techniques.
   • Strong planning and organizational skills.
   • Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.
   • Ability to interact positively and somewhat independently with clients.
4. Other: Ability to obtain and maintain an Active Secret Security Clearance.

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Writing sample
• Transcripts - Undergraduate and Graduate (unofficial is ok)

***Voluntary (but highly desired) document***
Please include a personal statement as part of your application. A personal statement is a chance for us to get to know you. The statement is your opportunity to share your goals, interests, influences and show us that you will be a valuable asset to our organization.

CNA is committed to providing equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service and protected veterans, or other non-merit based factors.

For more information about EEO protections, please view the EEO is the law posters here: EEO is the Law Poster, EEO Poster Supplement.

The pay transparency policy is available here: Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Poster.

To be considered for hire, all individuals applying for positions with CNA are subject to a background investigation. For positions requiring access to classified information, U.S. citizenship is required.

Other details

• Job Family: Research
• Job Function: Career Path I - Research

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