AddressResearch Associate, United States Studies Centre
A unique opportunity to support the CEO of the United States Studies Centre
Full-time, 2-year fixed term contract
Annual Salary between $70-75K exclusive of super (determined based on experience)
About the Centre
The United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney is a university-based research centre, dedicated to the rigorous analysis of American foreign policy, emerging technology, economics, politics and culture. The Centre is a national resource, that builds Australia's awareness of the dynamics shaping America and their implications for Australia and solutions for the alliance.
USSC's mission is to make discoveries and draw insights with tangible value for Australian policymakers, businesses, scholars, students and the general public, generated by independent, non-partisan, rigorous research, delivered through communication, teaching and outreach.
About the opportunity
The United States Studies Centre is recruiting a Research Associate to Undertake research, policy outreach and staffing support for the CEO of the USSC at the University of Sydney.
As an integral member of our expanding USSC team, the successful applicants will be immersed in the research, policy outreach activities and major events of one of Australia's leading think tanks.
The Research Associates will work across several of the following priority areas:
US and Australian strategic policy;
Australia-United Kingdom-United States AUKUS partnership
Indo-Pacific alliances
Australia's Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO)
maritime security in the Indo-Pacific and partnerships broadly
technology, critical minerals and strategic competition;
diplomatic, geoeconomic and geopolitical issues; and
deterrence and counter-coercion.
Key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
tracking policy and current affairs developments in priority areas;
research in support of publications;
administrative support including liaising with key stakeholders and VIPs on Centre projects; working with internal USSC teams; preparing agendas and other documents for activities, schedules and travel and note-taking
empirical and data work.
The position offers a unique opportunity for early career researchers and/or international affairs professionals to develop their applied research, project management and outreach skills as part of a dynamic team; and to deepen subject matter expertise in the United States and Australia.
About You:
tertiary qualifications (preferably honours and/or Masters) and related working experience
ability to independently manage administrative and research tasks
strong research, writing and communication skills, coupled with experience in research, think tanks, government or other related roles
excellent organisational skills with demonstrated ability to prioritise and adapt to competing demands
proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and an understanding of the operating environment of a research organisation is desirable.
Please click here for a copy of the position description.
Mental health statement and diversity and inclusion statement
The United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney recognises the value of diversity and inclusion, and we strongly support a culture where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from women, people of all ages and from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, LGBTIQ+ individuals, people with disability, refugees and veterans.
The Centre is committed to providing a safe, respectful place of work and learning that fosters positive mental health and wellbeing. Maintaining our health and wellness and supporting the health and wellness of those around us, is an important part of our daily life at USSC.
We are committed to building a positive, collaborative and respectful culture driven by social responsibility, diversity, inclusion, mental health and sustainability. In 2023, the Centre won the Best Workplace Award and the Culture Change Award, both presented by international survey company X-Ref.
Sponsorship / work rights for Australia
Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
How to apply / Submission:
Expression of interest (max. 1-page)
CV or resumé (max. 3-pages)
Contact details for two referees
Existing writing sample on relevant topic (max. 10-pages)
For any questions regarding the position, please contact Nhien Deamer via email at nhien.truong@sydney.edu.au
Applications Close
Tuesday 19 March 2024 11:59 PM
