Lead Researcher (Political & Security Affairs)
1/15/2026
The Lead Researcher will undertake policy-relevant research on ASEAN's political and security developments and produce various types of written content. They will also engage with media and assist in organizing conferences and training programs.
Working Hours
40 hours/week
Company Size
1,001-5,000 employees
Language
English
Visa Sponsorship
No
[What the role is]
The ISEAS - Yusof Ishak Institute is a leading research centre dedicated to the study of socio-political, security and economic trends and developments in Southeast Asia and its wider geostrategic and economic development. Applications are invited for:Lead Researcher (Political & Security Affairs) [2 years contract]
[What you will be working on]
This is a mid- to senior-level position for a researcher on ASEAN political and security matters. Candidates should have published works and/or policy-papers and possess relevant work experience. The contract would be for a duration of two years, with possibility of extension.
Primary Responsibilities:
Undertake policy-relevant research on ASEAN’s political and security development
Production Editor for ASEANFocus and assist the Managing Editor in coordinating and managing content, and liaising with prospective contributors, designers, and publisher
Produce policy papers, commentaries, academic papers
Conduct lectures, talks and briefings on ASEAN institutional, political and security issues
Assist in the organization and management of conferences, workshops, webinars, and outreach programmes
Design and deliver capacity-building programmes and specialised training courses on ASEAN and regional political–security issues for diplomats, civil servants and external partners
Participate in the planning, research design, data analysis and publication of the annual State of Southeast Asia survey
Engage with regional and international media to communicate research insights and provide expert commentary on ASEAN political-security issues
Assist the Coordinator as necessary
[What we are looking for]
Requirements:
Post-graduate degree in Political Science; Southeast Asian Studies, Asian Studies, International Relations, or a relevant degree
Strong inter-disciplinary background and able to conduct unsupervised research and publish on a range of political and security issues
A minimum 7 years of work experience on regional political and security issues
A strong interest in ASEAN, particularly the ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC)
A track record of policy-related research and writing would be highly regarded
Good communication and writing skills in English
The applicant must be a citizen from one of the ASEAN Member States.
Positive work attitude and ability to work under demanding circumstances.
Team spirit and a high sense of professionalism
Applications should include a cover letter, a full CV, two reference letters, a writing sample and a one-page description of the proposed area of research.
Remuneration and benefits will depend on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.
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