Orion Policy Institute

Orion Policy Institute (OPI) is an independent non-profit think tank based in Washington, D.C. Our mission is to promote good governance, advance human rights, and improve policy through high-quality research. OPI seeks to generate practical and sustainable solutions based on multidisciplinary, diverse, and in-depth research and analysis. We address a broad range of issues, including national and global security, democracy, human rights, political and economic development, peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and various other issues at the local, national, and global levels.

Position Description

Orion Policy Institute is seeking a remote Non-Resident Fellow – Homeland Security & Counterterrorism to join our dynamic team of researchers and policy analysts. This role is designed for experienced researchers and practitioners who seek to contribute to policy-relevant research and thought leadership. The Homeland Security & Counterterrorism Fellow will contribute to our research agenda by providing expertise in domestic and transnational security challenges, with a particular emphasis on counterterrorism, emerging threats, and resilience.

Compensation

The Fellow will be paid on a publication/project basis. The compensation is $300 for each publication and $500 for each successfully submitted project.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research on homeland security and counterterrorism.
• Produce high-quality research papers, op-eds, policy briefs, and reports that contribute to the understanding of the homeland security and counterterrorism policy sphere.
• Collaborate with other researchers and policy analysts at the Institute to develop actionable solutions to emerging security threats.
• Participate in webinars, conferences, and other public forums to present research findings and engage with stakeholders.
• Provide expert commentary and insights on homeland security and counterterrorism issues for media and public inquiries.
• Assist in the development of funding proposals to support homeland security and counterterrorism research projects.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in security studies, public policy, law, international relations, or related fields.
• 6+ years of demonstrated experience in homeland security and/or counterterrorism. Areas of specialty may include countering violent extremism (CVE), intelligence, cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection, border and immigration policy, disaster response, or biosecurity.
• Experience in government, policymaking, or practitioner roles in relevant public and private sectors is strongly preferred.
• Skills in quantitative and/or qualitative research methods, with experience in designing and conducting rigorous studies.
• Strong writing and communication skills, with a track record of published research or policy papers.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote work environment.
• Experience in engaging with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public on homeland security and counterterrorism issues is a plus.
• Familiarity with the national security framework and domestic and transnational threats.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following materials to careers@orionpolicy.org :

• A cover letter outlining their interest and qualifications