Research Assistant - Turkey Research Program
This RA will work with Dr. Soner Cagaptay to conduct research and produce publications focused on Turkey's political, diplomatic, and strategic environments and the impact those environments may have on both U.S. foreign policy interests and U.S.-Turkish relations.
Turkish language skills (advanced or native) are preferred. Ideal candidates should be able to work on deadlines, multitask, and synthesize a large amount of information in a short period of time.
The TRP RA will also participate in The Washington Institute's larger RA cohort. Further details on the RA program are as follows:
The RA program provides a pathway for recent graduates and early-career professionals to begin the transformation from young scholar to promising analyst and future policymaker. Research Assistants support Institute senior fellows in all aspects of research and administrative work, and go on to contribute to the policy world as government officials, research analysts, journalists, consultants, and other roles. In addition to providing research support, RAs participate in The Washington Institute's frequent public and private events, and contribute to the daily operations of the office. Research Assistants gain exposure to high-level decision-makers, follow developments in the Middle East, and help senior fellows produce in-depth research and policy analysis. The Washington Institute provides professional development programming for Research Assistants, equipping them with relevant skills for policy positions.
RA positions are geared towards recent B.A. graduates with an interest and background in Middle East affairs and U.S. foreign policy. The position is a full-time (40 hours/week), year-long, paid position with a salary of $55,000, plus benefits. Start dates will be in late summer of 2026. Ability to work full-time in person in our Washington, D.C. office is mandatory. Candidates may apply for up to three positions.
The TRP RA will report directly to the RA/Intern Program Director, as well as Dr. Cagaptay. Applications will be accepted until February 15, 2026.