Research Assistant Program

USIP Research Assistants (RAs) provide support on a variety of tasks and projects. They are paid between $10-14 per hour and work an average of 20 hours per week.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis to fill program needs. The majority of RAs are hired to work one-on-one with Jennings Randolph Senior Fellows for ten months beginning in October. Interviews begin for these and other RA positions one to two months before the anticipated start date.

Shira Lowinger is the manager of the JR Research Assistants Program.

 IMPORTANT 
Only full-time students from universities belonging to the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area (CUWMA) can be considered for these openings. CUWMA members include: American University, the Catholic University of America, Corcoran College of Art and Design, Gallaudet University, Georgetown University, George Mason University, The George Washington University, Marymount University, National Defense Intelligence College, National Defense University, Southeastern University, Trinity University, University of the District of Columbia, Howard University, the University of Maryland at College Park.

How to Apply

Students from a Consortium member university who wish to apply to be a research assistant at USIP should consult the list of current openings below and submit the following application materials:

1. A cover letter stating which position is of interest to you;
2. A copy of your resume; and
3. A brief writing sample demonstrating your research and writing ability.

Current R.A. Openings

• Office of Finance(1 Position)
  
• Grants (1 Position)
  

OFFICE OF FINANCE(1 Position)

Project: Research Assistant to the Budget Director
Contact: Joseph Lataille, jlataille@usip.org
Desired Qualifications: The research assistant will work on assignments related to Institute budget execution and formulation.  Duties will include historical budget research, budget and spending analyses, assistance with budget forms and mechanics, assistance in researching and drafting annual budget submissions, and drafting website and intranet content.  Familiarity with Microsoft Excel and strong analytic and writing skills are a must.  Understanding of database development and familiarity with Intuit QuickBase is a plus.  The successful candidate will demonstrate attention to detail and a willingness to do a variety of tasks. 
Expected Project Dates: Looking immediately

GRANTS (1 Position)

Project: Middle East Grants
Contact: Shira Lowinger, slowinger@usip.org
Desired Qualifications: Assist Grants program with applications related to the Middle East, specifically in Iraq. The grant-making in Iraq focuses on promoting inter-communal tolerance and conflict resolution capacity through the development of education and training initiatives by Iraqi civil society organizations; empowering marginalized and disadvantaged groups—especially women, minorities, the disabled, and rural communities—to make positive contributions to political and conflict management processes in Iraq; and promoting transitional justice initiatives in Iraq through education and training.  Advanced Arabic skills required.
Expected Project Dates: Looking immediately

For further information on Research Assistant Opportunities contact: