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Iran Researcher Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Reach Media LLC

Multimedia Journalist

Washington, DC · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Will be responsible originate, research, write, produce, and present material using text, stills ... In-depth understanding of Iran's history, politics, social issues and culture as well as the ...

SOSi

Linguist Analyst (China)

Vienna, VA

Exovera provides research, analysis, and operational capabilities to government, defense, and private-sector clients. Our team consists of China, Russia, and Iran-focused linguist-analysts who work ...

SOSi

Linguist Analyst (China)

Vienna, VA · On-site

Exovera provides research, analysis, and operational capabilities to government, defense, and private-sector clients. Our team consists of China, Russia, and Iran-focused linguist-analysts who work ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsIran Researcher JobsIran Researcher Jobs in Reston, VA

Iran Researcher information

See Reston, VA salary details

$31.2K

$117.7K

$171.1K

How much do iran researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for iran researcher in Reston, VA is $117,666.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,700.00 and $160,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Iran Researcher vs Iran Analyst?

AspectIran ResearcherIran Analyst
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Middle Eastern Studies, Political Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in similar fields, often with analytical skills
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, think tanks, universitiesGovernment agencies, consulting firms, policy organizations
Industry UsageAcademic research, policy development, intelligencePolicy analysis, strategic planning, intelligence assessment
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared with Iran Analyst due to overlapping research skillsOften compared with Iran Researcher for analytical roles

While both Iran Researchers and Iran Analysts work with information related to Iran, Iran Researchers focus more on in-depth academic or policy research, whereas Iran Analysts interpret data to inform decisions. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and application.

What does an Iran researcher do?

An Iran Researcher is a specialist who studies and analyzes various aspects related to Iran, such as its politics, economy, society, culture, or foreign relations. They often work for think tanks, academic institutions, government agencies, or media organizations to provide insights and reports about developments in Iran. Their work may involve gathering and interpreting data, monitoring news and policy changes, conducting interviews, and writing analytical papers or briefings. Iran Researchers help organizations make informed decisions and understand the complex dynamics within and around Iran.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Iran researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Iran Researcher, you need a strong background in Middle Eastern studies, political science, or international relations, often with advanced degrees and proficiency in Farsi. Familiarity with data analysis tools, research databases, and source verification techniques is critical. Outstanding analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set standout researchers apart. These capabilities enable accurate, nuanced analysis of complex regional developments and effective dissemination of findings to inform policy or organizational decisions.

What are some common challenges faced by Iran researchers when gathering reliable information?

Iran Researchers often encounter challenges such as limited access to primary sources, language barriers, and information censorship. Navigating local regulations and verifying the credibility of data can also be difficult due to restricted media freedom and government controls. Building a reliable network of contacts and using a combination of open-source intelligence and expert analysis are essential strategies to overcome these obstacles. Collaboration with colleagues specializing in regional studies or security can further enhance research accuracy and depth.
What are popular job titles related to Iran Researcher jobs in Reston, VA? For Iran Researcher jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Iran Researcher jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Iran Researcher jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Iran Researcher jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Iran Researcher job openings:
Iran Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Iran Researcher job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,666 per year, or $56.6 per hour.

Iran Analyst, Critical Threats Project

AEI

Washington, DC • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Overview
The Critical Threats Project (CTP) at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) produces detailed, objective analysis and forecasts of America's core national security challenges and concrete recommendations to address them. CTP also trains the next generation of policymakers and intelligence analysts. Its granular, open-source publications assist government officials, the media, and the military and intelligence communities while informing the public about the nuance and scale of threats to America's security.
AEI seeks a full-time, in-person analyst to advance CTP's mission by conducting independent research, leading interns, and supporting foreign policy scholarship. The anticipated start date for this position is as soon as possible.
This position's primary focus will be Iran's internal and external security and foreign policy activities, including the country's military capabilities, regional influence, and soft-power outreach. Other responsibilities include selecting, training, and mentoring interns; intellectually contributing to research; providing feedback on technological innovation projects; and providing other research and administrative support as required.
The ideal candidate works well on agile, collaborative, hard-working teams; can adjust priorities in response to changing research and publication needs; and possesses excellent research, writing, task management, communication, and organizational skills. A demonstrated interest in foreign and defense policy and strong technological instincts are required. Analysts interact with a bespoke research database daily and use cutting-edge technology to complete research. Working proficiency in Persian (Farsi) is required.
The CTP team operates in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and is responsive to crises in the areas it covers. An excellent candidate welcomes challenges and will embrace his or her role in achieving CTP's mission.
AEI offers a stimulating and collegial work environment and excellent benefits. Qualified applicants should submit an online application complete with a resume, cover letter, transcripts, and 500-word writing sample on a topic related to the position.
Responsibilities
  • Core Responsibilities
    • Research, conduct analysis, and write for CTP reports, updates, and other analytical products related to Iran's internal dynamics, internal and external security, and foreign policy activities, including the country's military capabilities, regional influence, and soft-power outreach. Work with colleagues in a professional manner to complete time-sensitive written products.
    • Perform library, online, bibliographic, and investigative research using English and Farsi language skills under the guidance of more experienced researchers and in collaboration with other analysts at CTP and its research partner, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
    • Select, train, and mentor interns. Oversee interns' work on daily open-source intelligence collection and research projects. Lead training sessions and refine ongoing education programs.
    • Contribute to technology partnership projects, test new tools, provide feedback, and integrate changes into the research workflow.
    • Collaborate on projects with CTP and ISW staff to accomplish long-term research goals and advance the CTP team's overall mission.
  • Additional Responsibilities
    • Cooperate and collaborate with departmental staff working on Iran-related issues.
    • Assist with administrative tasks and planning to support the team's mission.
    • Post recurring publications on criticalthreats.org. Posting duties are shared on a rotating basis among team members and typically occur in the evening, about once per week, and sometimes on weekends.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions at AEI
  • The employee is regularly expected to stand, sit, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, and keyboard. This job requires close-up vision for computer work.
  • The employee must be able to lift up to 30 pounds.
  • The employee must be able to work in a confined area.
  • Moderate noise (e.g., from computers, phones, printers, and light traffic) is expected.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities associated with this position.

Qualifications
  • A bachelor's degree (required)
  • 0-2 years of previous applicable full-time work experience (required); previous internship experience (strongly preferred)
  • A demonstrated interest in international relations, Iran, the Middle East, or defense policy
  • Working proficiency in Persian (Farsi) (required)
  • Critical thinking skills, strong technological instincts, and receptiveness to feedback
  • Strong initiative, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently
  • An interest in mentoring and developing interns

Benefits
AEI offers generous benefits, including 18 days of paid leave (15 days of paid annual leave and 3 personal/floating holidays); 12 days of paid sick leave; paid family leave; medical and dental coverage, in addition to a health savings account; medical and dependent care FSA; a tuition assistance program of up to $5,200; life and disability insurance at no cost to employees; and a 403b retirement plan with a contribution from AEI, among other benefits. For more information, you can see a full summary of our benefits at https://www.aei.org/jobs/benefits/.
Compensation is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: scope and responsibilities of the position; a candidate's full-time, applicable work experience; key skills and qualifications; as well as internal and external market considerations. The salary range for this full-time, exempt position is $53,000-$60,000. Salary is just one component of AEI's total compensation package for employees.

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