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 provide 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.

An opportunity has arisen in the Manama office for a Research Analyst to join the Middle East Programme.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and analysis as directed for a wide array of projects on Middle East security and conflict, economics and energy, and infrastructure and connectivity, including by producing original research, reviewing literature and current news, writing and editing.

• Maintain and develop a repository of Middle East political, security, economic and infrastructure data.

• Produce presentations, visuals and other assets for use in IISS research and advisory work.

• Support the administrative work of the Senior Fellows and Research Fellows, including producing and reviewing drafts, note-taking, and liaising with other programmes.

Requirements

• A master’s degree in a relevant field such as international relations, strategic studies, war studies or economics.

• Experience in government, journalism, political risk, academic research or the non-profit sector is desirable.

• Proven record of policy-relevant research on political, security and/or economic matters in the Eastern Mediterranean basin and/or the Arabian Peninsula/Gulf.

• Able to work with large qualitative and quantitative datasets and manipulate them.

• Excellent command of spoken and written English. Arabic, Persian or Turkish language skills would be highly desirable.

Remuneration

The IISS provides a full employment package. The benefits package at the Institute includes life assurance, private medical insurance, and contributory General Organization for Social Insurance. More information about the IISS can be found at www.iiss.org.

Application

Candidates should submit their applications by clicking the “Apply Now” blue button above and follow the instructions to submit two documents:

• 1st document should be a single PDF document that includes a cover letter and 1 writing sample.

• 2nd document should be a full Curriculum Vitae.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 15 May 2025.

Candidates must be eligible to work in the Kingdom of Bahrain. 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.