Call for Research Fellow at International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS-Middle East) is open now!!!
They have a truly international workforce, currently totaling 26 nationalities. They value the diverse makeup of our organization and the rich perspectives this brings to our work.
They endeavor to be lean and disciplined, keeping bureaucracy to a minimum so that we can work at speed to get things done.
They are ambitious for the future and part of this is a continuous modernization of our working environment and processes – this is an exciting time to be working at IISS.
They take employee development seriously at IISS, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to improve and increase their skills continually. They do this through training and by providing on-the-job opportunities to expand each individual’s range of experience. They believe people should never stop learning.
To do this, They have a professional competency framework designed to ensure fairness, transparency and to be inspiring. Within the framework, each employee’s role is defined and a job profile prepared identifying the standards required in the areas of:
(a) knowledge and technical abilities;
(b) business skills; and
(c) behavioral factors.
This allows for structured development to take place in preparation for promotion opportunities as they arise.
This framework is delivered through our online performance management system, which provides for annual reviews and mid-year objectives discussion and adjustment.
A clear line manager support structure ensures staff are tasked appropriately and given clear direction on a daily basis. A bespoke management training programme is open to all and supports the competency framework. This allows for staff to develop their business and soft skills, alongside their chosen technical field.
From time to time, secondment opportunities to our international offices arise. We see this as a valuable experience enabling IISS to retain expertise and to develop the individual internationally.
Employee benefits
The Research Fellow will be reporting to the Executive Director IISS – Middle East and the Senior Fellow for Middle East Policy.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct original, high-quality and independent research on at least one of the following themes: (1) energy policy and security, (2) the intersection of technology and geopolitics and (3) infrastructure and connectivity in the Middle East and its immediate neighborhood.
- Contribute to IISS analysis across various platforms.
- Support IISS fundraising activities, advisory services and events.
- Collaborate closely with IISS colleagues, including mentoring and supervising junior researchers.
Location:
BahrainBenefits
ISS–Middle East Research Fellow Benefits (Bahrain):
- Contract: 2-year full-time, competitive salary
- Relocation: Visa and moving support
- Growth: Lead research, publish, attend global events
- Networking: Engage with policymakers, media, and experts
- Environment: Work with top strategists in a global think tank
Eligibilities
- Be an analyst of high calibre, with experience in academia, government, journalism or industry.
- Possess knowledge of Middle Eastern political and security dynamics.
- Have a proven publishing record.
- Have a postgraduate degree relating to Middle East studies, or an equivalent professional background in related fields.
- Have demonstrable experience working in a relevant field.
- Be able to write and communicate well in English and conduct research in one Middle Eastern language.
- Experience living and conducting research in the Middle East will be highly valued.
Application Process
- Prepare Your Application Materials
- CV/Resume: Highlight academic background, research experience, publications, and regional expertise.
- Cover Letter: Tailor it to the IISS–Middle East role. Emphasize your interest in Gulf and Middle East policy, and how your work aligns with IISS’s mission.
- Writing Samples: Include 1–2 examples of policy-relevant research or analysis (published or unpublished).
- References: Provide contact details for 2–3 professional referees familiar with your research or policy work.
- Submit Online
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- Visit the IISS Careers Page.
- Use the application portal to upload your documents and complete any required fields.
- Timeline
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- Deadline: While not explicitly stated, similar IISS roles have deadlines around early November. Apply as soon as possible to ensure consideration.
- Selection Process
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- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews (virtual or in-person).
- Final selection is based on research quality, regional relevance, and communication skills.
Application Deadline: November 6, 2025 (5 Days Remaining)
Apply nowOfficial link
