Research Associate

About the role

The Perry Center supports the community of security and defense professionals in the Americas to pursue collaborative approaches to mutual opportunities and challenges. Through academics, research, and outreach, including ministerial-level consulting, we advance sustainable institutional capacity, strengthen the rule of law and democracy, and promote greater understanding of U.S. policy throughout the Western Hemisphere. Required Qualifications: Earned master's degree or equivalent in an appropriate discipline such as international security (defense/war) studies, international relations/affairs, public policy, and/or public management. Minimum of one year of relevant professional experience. Excellent written and communication skills in English and Spanish. Demonstrated high-quality analytic research skills: Proven capacity to propose and conduct empirical research leading to practical policy advice and implementable programmatic recommendations. Ability to conduct cross/multi-disciplinary analysis and synthesis. Proven capacity to write under strict professional standards. Ability to effectively organize and communicate findings to a policy or practitioner-oriented audience. Rapid knowledge acquisition and learning from various methodologies, models, frameworks, or areas of inquiry. Proven ability to work collaboratively, placing team mission and professional integrity before personal agenda. Ability to perform in a matrixed organization with multiple stakeholders and priorities. Detail-oriented organizational skills. Self-management and performance in a changing, fast-paced work environment. Professionalism and proficiency in international environments and among senior officials. Desired Qualifications: Experience with fieldwork research methodologies. Knowledge of defense or security sector strategic planning. Understanding of new public management and governance benchmark models. Proficiency in Portuguese or French. Experience living, working, and/or studying in other countries in the Western Hemisphere. Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills, and can provide valuable training and experience that translates to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

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