At a Glance
- Tasks: Collect and assess data on defence budgets and procurement while supporting research projects.
- Company: Join the International Institute for Strategic Studies, a leading defence and security think tank.
- Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, life assurance, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Other info: Gain valuable experience in a dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Dive into the world of defence analysis and make a real impact on global security.
- Qualifications: Degree in strategic studies or military affairs; strong research and numerical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is a defence and security think tank that has a deep understanding of regional geopolitics and geo-economics in a global context. Its international researchers provide best-in-class, independent and impartial analysis and offer insights on strategic challenges and priorities to governments and the private sector. It is expert at bringing together national leaders and senior policymakers in foreign policy, defence and security; promoting dialogue; and facilitating effective and influential bilateral and multilateral consultations.
The Institute is seeking to appoint a Research Assistant to work for the IISS Defence and Military Analysis Programme’s (DMAP) defence procurement team. This position should appeal to individuals who have, or would like to acquire and use, detailed knowledge of defence procurement and industry. A working knowledge of at least one language other than English is essential.
Responsibilities:
- Collection and assessment of data on defence budgets, defence expenditures, defence procurement and international arms transfers.
- Support defence industry research by building out the database of defence industry data at the IISS to include company ownership and structure, capability focus, revenues, employees, senior staff and M&A activity.
- Support DMAP research and consultancy projects that require defence procurement data or analysis.
Requirements:
- Completion of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree course relating to strategic studies or military affairs, or a professional background in military or defence intelligence, or a background in defence industry or defence industry analysis.
- Excellent command of spoken and written English.
- Experience of research using written and online sources.
- Shows discretion and discernment in respect of data-source quality.
- Strong numerical skills to include a proficiency in Excel.
- Working knowledge of a language other than English.
Remuneration: The IISS provides a full employment package. The benefits package at the Institute includes Life Assurance, Private Medical Insurance, BUPA health cashback plan, Season Ticket Loan, Cycle scheme and Contributory Pension Scheme.
Application: Candidates should press the blue 'apply now' button and follow the steps to submit two documents: A CV and a cover letter, stating their suitability for the role. The deadline for receipt of applications is 22 May 2026. Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we will be unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Due to the volume of expected applications, only those selected for interview will be contacted. The IISS is an equal opportunities employer.
Research Assistant for Defence and Military Analysis Programme employer: International Institute for Strategic Studies
The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London, where employees engage in meaningful research that shapes global defence and security policies. With a strong commitment to employee development, IISS provides comprehensive benefits including private medical insurance and a contributory pension scheme, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation among its diverse team of experts. Joining IISS means being part of a prestigious think tank that values independent analysis and promotes professional growth in the field of strategic studies.
Contact Details:
International Institute for Strategic Studies Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant for Defence and Military Analysis Programme
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the defence and military sector on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups and engage in discussions to get your name out there and show your interest in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the IISS and its Defence and Military Analysis Programme. Understand their recent projects and challenges, so you can discuss how your skills align with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your language skills! Since a working knowledge of another language is essential, brush up on your skills to impress during interviews. It shows you're serious about the role and can communicate effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Make sure your CV and cover letter highlight your relevant experience and enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant for Defence and Military Analysis Programme
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Tailored CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the role. We want to see how your background in strategic studies or military affairs makes you a perfect fit for our defence procurement team.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're interested in the position and how your unique experiences make you the ideal candidate. Remember, we love a bit of personality!
Showcase Your Research Skills:Since this role involves a lot of data collection and analysis, be sure to mention any relevant research experience. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their ability to assess data quality and draw insightful conclusions.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to hit that blue 'apply now' button on our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen and ready to join the IISS team!
How to prepare for a job interview at International Institute for Strategic Studies
✨Know Your Defence Stuff
Make sure you brush up on current defence procurement trends and key players in the industry. Familiarise yourself with recent reports or analyses from the IISS to show that you’re genuinely interested and informed about their work.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
Prepare to discuss your research experience in detail. Be ready to explain how you've collected and assessed data in the past, especially if it relates to defence budgets or procurement. Use specific examples to highlight your analytical skills.
✨Language Skills Matter
Since a working knowledge of another language is essential, be prepared to demonstrate your proficiency. You might even want to practice discussing defence topics in that language to show you can communicate effectively in both English and your second language.
✨Excel at Excel
Given the strong numerical skills required, make sure you’re comfortable using Excel. Brush up on your data analysis techniques and be ready to discuss how you’ve used Excel in previous roles or projects to manage and analyse data.
