Research Enablement Lead

About Yaqeen Institute

Yaqeen is a nonprofit on a mission to pioneer Islamic research in creative, cutting‑edge formats tailored to meet people where they are. We work to dismantle doubts through well‑researched truths, nurture conviction by strengthening belief with practical, spiritual guidance, and inspire contribution by reviving our tradition of faithful changemakers.

Research Enablement Lead is part of the operational backbone of the Research Department, a pivotal role designed to empower our researchers to do their most impactful work. You will not be conducting primary research; instead, you will architect the systems, processes, and tools that make our research possible, optimize workflows, manage knowledge infrastructure, and coordinate the administrative aspects of our research partnerships.

• Process & Workflow Optimization
  • Document, oversee, and continuously suggest improvements for the end‑to‑end research lifecycle.
  • Establish and maintain clear operational procedures to ensure consistency, quality, and timeliness.
  • Act as the primary project manager for the research pipeline, tracking statuses and identifying bottlenecks.
• Author & Stakeholder Communications
  • Communicate with stakeholders within the research pipeline and cross‑functional teams.
  • Foster strong positive relationships and nurture author & peer reviewer retention.
  • Manage communications and tracking with academic and institutional partners.
• Technology & Tool Management
  • Administer the research team’s technology stack and collaborative tools.
  • Evaluate, recommend, and implement new tools to enhance productivity.
  • Provide training and support to ensure effective adoption.
• Knowledge Management
  • Collaborate with the Research Operations Manager to maintain a centralized knowledge hub and digital library.
  • Implement a robust system for archiving projects and creating a searchable database.
• Quality Assurance & Standards
  • Collaborate with Editorial Leadership to uphold and standardize guidelines across all publications.
  • Manage the logistics of the peer‑review process.
• Onboarding & Collaboration
  • Develop comprehensive onboarding processes for new researchers.
  • Serve as the liaison between the Research department and other teams to ensure smooth handoffs.
• Partnerships Coordination
  • Interface with academic and community partners.
  • Maintain partnership databases and documentation.
  • Track status of contracts and agreements.
  • Provide logistical support for partnership‑related events.

• Required
  • 3+ years of experience in research operations, program management, or similar role.
  • Expertise in designing and implementing operational workflows from the ground up.
  • Mastery of project management software (e.g., Asana, OJS).
  • Exceptional organizational skills with keen eye for detail.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proactive, problem‑solving mindset with passion for continuous improvement.
  • Deep appreciation for and understanding of Yaqeen Institute’s mission and values.
• Preferred
  • Experience with in a think tank, non‑profit, or academic institution.
  • Familiarity with Islamic studies or related humanities fields.
  • Experience managing digital libraries or knowledge management systems.

Yaqeen Institute embraces a philosophy that values and promotes diversity. Our goal is to attract, develop, retain, and advance a talented and diverse workforce within a culture where all employees are empowered to reach their fullest potential.

All career opportunities at Yaqeen Institute are subject to a three‑month probationary period, during which we assess performance, alignment with our values, and mutual fit to ensure long‑term success in the role.