China Senior Researcher

The Asia Division of Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking applicants for the position of Senior Researcher, China. The Asia Division is one of HRW’s six regional research programs and is made up of about 30 staff, many of them based in the region and working in challenging environments. The Asia Division works to promote human rights in Asia by conducting human rights investigations, writing reports, advocating, and working with partners and media. This position reports to the Deputy Director of the Asia Division based in Washington DC.

The researcher will be responsible for developing and implementing a research and advocacy agenda on human rights conditions in China. The full-time position will preferably be based within commuting distance of one of HRW’s offices, though locations in the Asia region may be considered. The role is expected to start in July 2026.

Responsibilities

• Research, monitor and document the human rights situation in China by collecting and analyzing information from a wide variety of sources including governments, media, academia, NGOs, victims, witnesses, journalists, diplomats, security forces and others.
• Write and publicize reports, briefing papers, letters, news releases, op-eds, and submissions to international bodies to disseminate our research findings and policy recommendations for addressing human rights abuses.
• Identify and highlight key political and human rights trends and emerging issues, and analyze abuses within the broader political, social, and economic context to highlight factors contributing to abuses and avenues for effective change.
• Respond to and anticipate news events in order to press human rights issues; assess when and where to make public interventions such as op-eds; think creatively about using multimedia and social media to communicate our positions in clear and compelling ways and to advance advocacy.
• Project Human Rights Watch’s concerns into public debates and generate tangible pressure on human rights abusers while finding innovative approaches in light of the obstacles and resources available.
• Conduct media interviews and high-level advocacy on Human Rights Watch’s research findings and recommendations with policymakers, diplomats, and others.
• Contribute to internal HRW policy debates on issues relevant to their expertise on China.
• Assist the Director of the Division and HRW’s Development and Outreach Department in conducting fundraising.
• Present human rights concerns to government officials, opinion leaders, inter-governmental agencies, and the media.
• Work closely with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local human rights organizations to ensure that HRW's work complements and enhances their own work without jeopardizing their security.
• Liaise effectively with HRW staff located in multiple locations throughout the world to ensure effective coordination and delivery of activities.
• Travel internationally, as required.
• Be prepared and willing to work flexible hours to accommodate developing and urgent events.
• Deliver outputs in a timely manner and consistent with the agreed strategy and priorities of the Asia division.
• Carry out any other duties as required.

Qualifications

Education

• A bachelor’s level degree, or equivalent working experience, is required. An advanced (graduate) degree in international relations, journalism, law, social sciences, or related studies is desirable.

Experience

• A minimum of six years of professional-level experience working on China is required. Experience working in or knowledge of China’s civil society, media, social media and government policies is preferred.

Related Skills and Knowledge

• Ability to identify, research, analyze and effectively communicate important human rights developments in China is required.
• Ability to conduct interviews safely remotely and in-person with a wide range of people, including victims and witnesses, is required.
• Ability to identify and advise on strategies to conduct research and advocacy is required.
• Knowledge of and experience working in international human rights, familiarity with international human rights law and a deep commitment to the advancement of human rights are required.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and Mandarin are required.
• Initiative and follow-through, capacity to think creatively and strategically, excellent editing skills, and dynamic public speaking skills are required.
• Interpersonal skills in order to work collaboratively within HRW, as well as with external partners, are required.
• Ability to multi-task effectively, including having strong planning and organizing skills, and ability to work under pressure are required.
• Ability to think strategically about the global and local media environments and how to use the media and electronic media to further goals are required.
• Ability to work flexible hours to accommodate developing and urgent events is required.

Salary and Benefits

HRW seeks exceptional applicants and offers competitive compensation and employer-paid benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance. The salary range for this position if based in the US is USD $88,000 – 96,000.