Program Director and Senior Fellow

The Center for a New American Security (CNAS) seeks to hire a part-time program director and senior fellow for its Middle East Security Program. Ideal candidates will have deep experience in research and/or policy development on Middle East security issues and regional dynamics. Policy-relevant knowledge and expertise in regional trends and relationships, including with the Gulf, Iran, and Israel, is preferred.

The position is part-time (10-20 hours per week). Eligibility for employee benefit plans will depend on the amount of time spent on CNAS work. Candidates should indicate their availability for part-time employment in their cover letter.

The Middle East Security Program conducts cutting-edge research on the most pressing issues in a turbulent region. The program focuses on the sources of instability in the region, maintaining key U.S. strategic partnerships, and generating solutions that help policymakers respond to both fast-moving events and long-term trends. The Middle East Security Program analyzes trends and generates implementable policy solutions that defend and advance U.S. interests. The program aims to chart a practical and responsible course for U.S. policy in this critical region.

Responsibilities:

The following is an overview of primary responsibilities. Other tasks may be required, and responsibilities will vary over time.

Program Leadership

• Develop and implement a vision, strategy, and research agenda for the program on Middle East security issues.


• Advise and manage a research assistant, adjunct fellows, outside authors, and other CNAS and external contributors.


• Work with CNAS leadership to develop sourcing plans and manage program budgets.


• Raise funding for the program’s work, together with the Center’s development team.

Research and Analysis

• Conduct original research and analysis to advance understanding and improve public policy on Middle East security.


• Write and publish reports, policy memos, articles, op-eds, and other written multimedia products related to core program themes.


• Engage other experts to conduct research and analysis as part of the program’s mission.


• Collaborate with other CNAS research programs.

Outreach

• Serve as an expert commentor in the media and engage in other public outreach through public speaking, press opportunities, and other outlets.


• Lead and participate in events, such as working groups, panel discussions, roundtables, and donor meetings.


• Conduct consultative meetings and outreach to senior government officials, thought leaders, Members of Congress, and their staffs.


• Engage foreign partners both in the United States and abroad.

Institutional Responsibilities

• Draft project proposals and liaise with current and prospective donors.


• Participate in the Center’s personnel processes.


• Attend internal meetings and represent CNAS at external events.


• Mentor colleagues.


• Staff CNAS events as needed.


• Participate in networking and outreach

Qualifications:

Candidates should possess the following:

• Strong education, research, and policymaking background in Middle East security policy.


• Demonstrated track record of policy-relevant publications.


• Established networks in relevant sectors.


• Project management experience and an ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.


• Commitment to CNAS’s mission of developing the next generation of national security leadership through training and mentoring junior staff.


• Demonstrated fundraising experience.


• Ability to communicate effectively with elected, appointed, and uniformed officials, donors, and other colleagues.


• Demonstrated experience working with the media (print, television, radio, podcasts, and other multimedia) and familiarity/experience with social media.


• Legal right to work in the United States.


• Based in Washington, DC or willing to relocate upon job offer.

About CNAS:

The Center for a New American Security develops bold, innovative, and bipartisan national security and defense policies that promote and protect American interests and values. Building on the deep expertise and broad experience of its staff and advisors, CNAS engages policymakers, experts, and the public with innovative fact-based research, ideas, and analysis to shape and elevate the national security debate. As an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit research organization, CNAS leads efforts to help inform and prepare the national security leaders of today and tomorrow. CNAS is located in Washington, D.C.

CNAS is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.