Research Associate, Conflict, Security and Development Programme (CSDP)

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is the world’s leading independent authority on global security issues, providing information and analysis on a wide range of international security and geopolitical risk questions. The Institute conducts research on the problems of conflict, however caused, that may have a significant military dimension, and analyses international trends, including economic developments, which may have strategic implications. The IISS is headquartered in London and has international offices in Berlin, Singapore, Manama and Washington DC.

An opportunity has arisen in the London office for a Research Associate to join the Conflict, Security and Development Programme (CSDP) within the research department.

Responsibilities:

• Provide research support in the annual production of the Armed Conflict Survey (ACS) publication.
• Write and co-write chapters where appropriate, publish blogs and social media pieces related to the ACS dissemination.
• Lead on the data part of the ACS, including managing the collection of data for the report and the Chart of Armed Conflict and the computation of composite indicators for the ACS.
• Provide research support to senior researchers on issues relevant to the CSDP’s research strands, including on political risks, illicit economies or geo-economic/geo-political dimensions/drivers of conflict.
• Write or co-author articles with research colleagues for external publication when appropriate.
• Liaise with the Communications team, assisting in research and logistical preparation for media interviews.
• Provide support in developing ideas for concept notes for research projects and in the drafting of fundraising proposals.
• Support the organisation of internal and external events, researching topics and leading logistical arrangements with speakers and participants, travel etc.

Requirements:

• A master’s degree in economics, political science, development studies, or international relations preferred.
• Experience in policy-relevant research and publication on development, security, political risk, illicit economies, geopolitics or geo-economics.
• Strong quantitative skills, including command of Excel; experience and interest in data collection and manipulation.
• Excellent command of spoken and written English.
• Additional language skills (French, Spanish or Portuguese) desirable.
• Experience and interest in Latin American or African studies desirable.

Remuneration:

The IISS provides a full employment package. The benefits package at the institute includes life assurance, private medical insurance, health cashback plan, season ticket loan, cycle scheme and contributory pension scheme.

Application:

Candidates should submit their applications by clicking the “Apply Now” blue button and following the instructions to submit two documents: a cover letter outlining what skills and experience you can bring to the role and a full Curriculum Vitae. The deadline for receipt of application is 8 December 2024. Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we will be unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. The IISS is an equal opportunities employer.