Overview
RAND Global and Emerging Risks (GER) brings together leading experts, scholars, strategists, and practitioners to help decision makers understand, anticipate, and prepare to navigate the national security and geopolitical implications of consequential challenges to civilization and global security, including the rapid advance of artificial intelligence, the biotechnology revolution, a transforming climate, and intensified strategic competition. The China Research Center, founded in 2024, is dedicated to providing rigorous, forward‑looking analysis on how China projects economic and technological power, with a focus on artificial intelligence.
Director Responsibilities
- Lead and guide all aspects of the center’s work in alignment with RAND’s mission to improve policy and decision‑making through objective research and analysis.
- Develop and execute the center’s strategic plan.
- Define and oversee the center’s research agenda, recruit resident research team members, and engage external collaborators.
- Develop and sustain relationships with decision makers in government and industry, in the United States and allied/partner governments.
- Identify and pursue new research and funding opportunities with foundations and donors.
- Ensure the quality of the center’s research products.
- Collaborate with GER’s other Centers and Chairs, and national security divisions on China and AI‑related research.
Qualifications
- Excellent analytic skills and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to work effectively as a member of a multi‑disciplinary team on projects designed for policy impact.
- Strong commitment to RAND’s core values of quality and objectivity.
- Excellent track record in researching and publishing policy‑relevant issues on China, and providing insights and recommendations to decision makers.
- Strong research and analysis capabilities, deep knowledge of the China policy environment, and excellent leadership and organizational management capabilities.
- Successful management of a complex research portfolio and ability to develop a network for fundraising and research opportunities.
- Exceptional interpersonal, staff management, client relationship, and written and oral communication skills.
Education Requirements
Master’s degree in a relevant field is required; a PhD is preferred. Preference for a background in the social sciences, quantitative methods, and operational analysis.
Experience
- At least 8 years of research experience, with 10+ years desired.
- Experience working with, or engaging regularly with, senior government, military, and/or industry leaders.
- Demonstrated experience in fundraising and program building.
- Background in or prior research on the intersection of China, technology, and geopolitics is an asset.
Security Clearance
Active security clearance or eligibility for a secret or higher clearance is required. The position requires regular access to classified material (multiple times per week).
Writing Sample
A writing sample is required for this position.
Location and Work Arrangement
Washington, DC; Pittsburgh, PA; or Santa Monica, CA. The role is flex, allowing work from home and the office. At least 50% of days must be worked on‑site at one of the RAND offices. Occasional travel to other RAND offices and to meet collaborators in the U.S. and overseas is expected.
Benefits
Senior Researcher salary range: $152,700–$262,500 (base pay plus RAND’s sabbatical pay). RAND provides health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, a savings plan, paid time‑off, and additional benefits.
Equal Opportunity
RAND is an equal opportunity employer. RAND is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.