Research Assistant: Foreign and Defense Policy Studies; Coalition Defense of Taiwan

Overview

The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) seeks a full-time, in-person research assistant to support the Coalition Defense of Taiwan (CDOT). CDOT is a joint initiative with the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) that provides analysis, assessments, forecasts, and recommendations to strengthen the formation and inform the action of a de facto coalition to deter and contain China and North Korea, with a primary focus on the Indo-Pacific.

The anticipated start date for this position is as soon as possible. The project examines US interests and objectives vis-a-vis Taiwan;
China’s and North Korea’s military, political, and coercive strategies; prospects and strategies for deterring these two countries’ coalition; and recommendations to strengthen regional and global stability. Through rigorous methodology, deep subject-matter expertise, and close engagement with the policy and defense communities, CDOT contributes to an understanding of the requirements for effective deterrence, coalition coordination, and—if necessary—war fighting in the Indo-Pacific.

The research assistant will primarily support research, writing, and editing for project leads Dan Blumenthal and Frederick W. Kagan and will work closely with the analytical team lead and project coordinator. Additional duties include supporting planning exercises, working groups, and other project events; supervising interns; and coordinating closely with ISW’s analytical team to ensure analytical and organizational cohesion across the partnership.

Research assistants may have opportunities to publish or receive authorial credit on project deliverables.

This position requires excellent writing, research, communication, and organizational skills. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong interest in Asian studies and Indo-Pacific security, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to take initiative on lines of inquiry while managing multiple competing priorities. Applicants must be proficient in Mandarin Chinese. Familiarity with military and defense issues is strongly preferred.