Part-Time Research Associate

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Department

School of International Service

Time Type

Part time

Job Type

Temporary (Fixed Term)

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Work Modality

Union:

Excluded

Summary

Job Description:

The part-time Research Associate will support the Accountability Research Center (ARC) on policy research, project development, and programmatic initiatives related to open government, accountability, and civil society engagement, with a particular focus on Africa and Global South governance initiatives. The position will involve conducting research, analyzing public policy and governance data, supporting the preparation of research outputs and program materials, engaging with policy researchers and stakeholders, and contributing to ARC’s fundraising and partnership development activities.

The Research Associate may collaborate with undergraduate and/or graduate research assistants or interns as needed and contribute to the development of new ARC research and outreach initiatives.

Essential Functions

• Research and Policy Analysis
• Conduct policy research on open government, accountability, transparency, and civil society initiatives, with a particular focus on Africa and Global South governance initiatives. Responsibilities include reviewing public policy materials, monitoring governance and accountability reforms, analyzing public budgets and governance data, conducting literature reviews, and synthesizing research findings into concise summaries for ARC staff and partners. The position will also support ongoing qualitative and quantitative research activities related to ARC projects and collaborative initiatives.
• Reports, Writing, and Research Outputs
• Support the preparation, drafting, editing, fact-checking, and formatting of research outputs, reports, policy briefs, presentations, concept notes, blogs, and other written materials related to ARC research and programmatic activities. Assist with summarizing research findings for internal and external audiences, preparing briefing materials for meetings and events, and ensuring that written products align with ARC’s research objectives and communications priorities.
• Project Development and Fundraising Support
• Support ARC project development activities by reviewing funder and partner landscapes, identifying potential collaboration and funding opportunities, conducting background research on prospective funders and initiatives, and assisting with outreach to partners and stakeholders. Responsibilities also include contributing to the drafting of concept notes, grant proposals, donor materials, and project development documents related to ARC’s research and outreach priorities.
• Research Coordination and Team Support
• Coordinate with ARC team members on project deliverables, timelines, and ongoing research activities. Participate in internal meetings and research discussions, assist with project tracking and administrative coordination related to research initiatives, and support communication with policy researchers, civil society partners, consultants, and relevant stakeholders. Assist with organizing research materials, maintaining project documentation, and supporting collaborative workflows across ARC initiatives.
• Supervision and Mentorship Support
• Provide support and guidance to undergraduate and/or graduate research assistants or interns working on ARC-related projects, including coordinating assignments, reviewing research contributions, supporting onboarding activities, and assisting with mentorship and team collaboration efforts as needed.
  
  

Competencies

• Acquiring and Analyzing Information.
• Prioritizing and Organizing.
• Supporting Coworkers.
• Displaying Creativity.
• Serving Customers.
  
  

Position Type/Expected Hours Of Work

• Part-time.
• 20 hours per week
• Temporary position from July 1 through December 31, 2026.
• This position is funded through an external grant with funding currently available through December 31, 2026.
• Continuation of the position beyond that date will depend on the availability of additional external funding and programmatic needs.
  
  

Salary Range

• $30.00 - $32.00 per hour.
  
  

Required Education And Experience

• Master's degree.
• 2 - 4 years of relevant experience.
• Experience conducting policy research and analysis.
• Experience preparing research summaries, reports, or briefing materials.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a research and policy environment.
• Experience coordinating multiple projects and deadlines.
• Cross-cultural communication and teamwork experience.
  
  

Preferred Education And Experience

• Master’s degree in International Affairs, International Relations, Public Policy, Political Science, Development Studies, or related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in governance, accountability, civil society, public policy, or international development research and programmatic initiatives.
• 3 - 5 years of relevant experience.
• Experience with project development and fundraising support.
• Experience supporting research teams or supervising interns/research assistants.
• Familiarity with African governance and public policy issues.
• Experience with data visualization or presentation tools.
  
  

Benefits

Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.

Other Details

• Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
• Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.
• Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
• American University is an E-Verify employer.
  
  

Current American University Employees

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Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.