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Middle East Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Middle East Program Intern

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Conduct research related to program sectors and/or context. * Assist Regional Program Officer in ... Middle East. * Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work independently, as well as part of a ...

Research, monitor, and report on developments, issues, and trends impacting the department and AJC ... Middle East to support and manage high-level programs and strategic initiatives. The Senior ...

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Middle East Research information

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$57K

$112.3K

$149.5K

How much do middle east research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for middle east research in the United States is $112,254.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $125,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Middle East Research position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Middle East Research, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in international relations or area studies, and often an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, languages such as Arabic, Hebrew, or Farsi, and experience with databases or geographic information systems (GIS) are often important. Communication, adaptability, and cross-cultural awareness are valuable soft skills for understanding nuanced regional contexts and conveying insights clearly. These competencies ensure credible analysis and effective collaboration in producing impactful research outcomes.

What is a Middle East Research job?

A Middle East Research job involves analyzing political, economic, social, and historical developments in the region. Researchers gather data, track trends, and provide insights for governments, businesses, or academic institutions. They may specialize in areas such as international relations, security, energy policy, or human rights. The role often includes writing reports, conducting interviews, and presenting findings. Strong analytical skills, regional expertise, and language proficiency (e.g., Arabic, Persian) are often beneficial.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in Middle East Research?

Professionals in Middle East Research typically spend their days collecting and analyzing data from a variety of sources, including news media, government reports, and academic publications relevant to the region. They often produce written analyses, briefs, or reports, and may present findings to internal stakeholders, clients, or policymakers. Collaboration with colleagues specializing in other regions or disciplines is common, especially when addressing global issues or interdisciplinary projects. This role frequently involves keeping up with current events, attending briefings or conferences, and responding to emerging developments affecting the Middle East.

More about Middle East Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Middle East Research jobs? Cities with the most Middle East Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Middle East Research jobs? The most popular types of Middle East Research jobs are:
What states have the most Middle East Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Middle East Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Middle East Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,254 per year, or $54 per hour.
Middle East Security Program Researcher

Middle East Security Program Researcher

Institute for the Study of War

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$68K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Middle East Security Program Researcher - Institute for the Study of War
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) is seeking a Middle East Researcher.
About ISW:
The need for objective, reliable, and accurate analysis has never been greater. When decision-makers need information-from policymakers to humanitarian aid organizations to military leaders on the ground-time and time again, they turn to the Institute for the Study of War.
ISW has a unique, dual mission: provide real-time intelligence to help leaders make informed decisions in conflict zones around the world and educate the next generation of national security leaders. This work is carried out through the General Jack Keane Center for National Security and the General David H. Petraeus Center for Emerging Leaders.
Position Summary:
ISW promotes an understanding of war and conflict by providing data and critical analysis to key American political and military leaders. In addition, ISW seeks to educate civilians about war and conflict, thus bridging the gaps between military and civilian decision-makers. ISW aims to improve how the United States formulates and executes its national security policy. ISW is vigilant at monitoring crises around the world and has a track record of accurately predicting potential and actual conflicts. ISW provides a proven platform for emerging researchers and analysts to launch their careers in an innovative and highly relevant project.
ISW seeks a talented and self-motivated full-time Researcher to conduct timely and exceptional open-source research and analysis of the geo-strategic dynamics of the Middle East region and how those dynamics will affect U.S. national security interests. The Researcher will work within ISW's Middle East Security Program and publish his or her insights to help identify the risks and opportunities in different policy approaches for U.S. policy-makers and practitioners.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide expert analysis on dynamic conflicts within the Middle East portfolio by synthesizing open-source information on political and security developments.
  • Capture and analyze granular information on these developments, including implications of regional dynamics.
  • Work closely with teams studying China and Russia to generate insights into regional and cross-border trends.
  • Aim to keep policymakers informed about ground situations, inflection points, developments affecting US interests, and potential policy options.
  • Gain proficiency in data-driven analytic software platforms to support investigations into complex research questions.
  • Publish findings through timely written and graphical reports and oral briefings.
  • Provide synthetic research support to long-term projects and forecasts to team members and programs as required.
  • Coach, mentor, and manage research interns and collaborate with team members.
  • Help edit and oversee daily and short-form written intelligence products to ensure adherence to institutional writing standards.
  • Validate compliance with proper data handling and storage guidelines.

Required education and experience:
  1. A bachelor's degree in a field of study related to the ISW's core mission and research agenda, a master's degree is preferred.
  2. Excellent understanding of written and spoken Arabic.
  3. Strong understanding of Middle Eastern political dynamics and military operations, either in an operational context or through research or coursework. A sophisticated understanding of military institutions and military history is helpful.
  4. Exceptional writing skills, proven independent research skills, good initiative, and the ability to collaborate on research projects.
  5. Outstanding briefing and presentation skills. The ideal candidate has experience conveying information to senior-level decision makers.
  6. Excellent qualitative and analytic skills, ability to represent material graphically, some familiarity with quantitative methods, and comfort with integrating technology into research.
  7. Experience dealing with the media - both print and broadcast - is preferred.
  8. The dedication and drive to produce policy-relevant research in a timely manner.
  9. Interest and enthusiasm for ISW's research agenda and mission.

Other duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. Compensation will be commensurate with work experience. To apply, please submit a letter of interest, a CV, and an academic/professional writing sample here.