Research Associate - Critical Minerals Security Program
WASHINGTON, DCPosted a month ago
Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from CSIS Middle East Program
Job overview
The Research Associate role at CSIS Middle East Program supports the Critical Minerals Security Program by advancing research and policy on critical minerals related to national and economic security, managing program operations, and contributing to thought leadership.
Responsibilities and impact
The Research Associate conducts research and analysis, prepares reports and multimedia products, manages events and workshops, represents the program at meetings, and coordinates research projects and timelines.
Compensation and benefits
The position offers an annual salary range of $60,000 - $65,000 based on experience, along with medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, tuition assistance, flexible spending and health savings accounts, military leave, paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation leave.
Experience and skills
Candidates should have a bachelor's degree (master's preferred), 2-4 years of experience in critical minerals research, strong communication, organizational skills, ability to work independently and in teams, and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Work environment and culture
CSIS is a bipartisan, nonprofit organization with a diverse and inclusive work environment based in Washington, D.C., emphasizing equal opportunity and accommodating employees with disabilities.
Company information
CSIS is a nonprofit, bipartisan public policy organization founded in 1962, with about 220 staff, providing strategic insights on global security and prosperity.
Job location and travel
The position is based at CSIS headquarters in Washington, D.C., with a typical office environment and moderate noise levels.
Application process
Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter via the CSIS careers website through a secure recruitment portal.
Unique job features
The role uniquely combines policy research on critical minerals with program management duties including budgeting, event planning, and publication oversight.
Company overview
The CSIS Middle East Program is a division of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a prominent Washington, D.C.-based think tank focused on global policy analysis and strategic issues. The program specializes in research, analysis, and policy recommendations related to political, economic, and security developments across the Middle East and North Africa. Funding comes from a mix of private donors, government grants, and corporate sponsors, supporting its events, publications, and expert commentary. Established as part of CSIS’s broader mission, the Middle East Program has played a key role in shaping U.S. and international policy discussions, often collaborating with policymakers, academics, and media. Candidates should be aware of the program’s reputation for nonpartisan, in-depth analysis and its influence in shaping informed debate on regional affairs.
How to land this job
Tailor your resume to highlight your research experience in critical minerals, emphasizing your ability to conduct both quantitative and qualitative analysis using large-scale datasets, as this is central to the Research Associate role at CSIS Middle East Program.
Emphasize your project management skills, including event coordination, budgeting, and publication oversight, to demonstrate your capability to manage program operations effectively.
Apply through multiple platforms such as the official CSIS careers page and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility and increase your chances of being noticed.
Connect with current employees or analysts within the CSIS Middle East Program on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like commenting on recent CSIS publications or events related to critical minerals or national security to start meaningful conversations.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'critical minerals research,' 'quantitative and qualitative methodologies,' 'project management,' and 'policy analysis' to ensure your resume passes initial screenings.
Leverage Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate multi-platform applications, tailor your resume for ATS, and identify relevant LinkedIn contacts for networking, allowing you to focus more on preparing for interviews and deepening your industry knowledge.
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