The Netherlands Institute of International Relations ‘Clingendael’ is a leading think tank and academy on international affairs. Through our analyses, training and public debate we aim to inspire and equip governments, businesses and civil society in order to contribute to a secure, sustainable and just world.
The Institute has three departments: Research, Academy and the Corporate Staff. Within the Research Department’s Security Unit we are looking for a
Research Fellow Security and Defence
36 hours per week (full time)
The Security Unit conducts research on the nature and character of security challenges for the world - more specifically for Europe and the Netherlands - and the ability to deal with them. Security is understood as a broad concept, encompassing ‘traditional’ threats such as armed conflict as well as the hybrid challenges such as cyber threats, disinformation, and other forms of non-military interference. The Security Unit is conducting research on national and intergovernmental responses to these threats and is in need of dedicated expertise to study, comment and advice on these topics.
Job description
The Security Unit is looking for a talented, highly motivated Research Fellow to support research activities along the lines of work listed above and described in more detail below. The Research Fellow will work in close consultation with the Head of the Security & Defence Programme, and, as required with Head of the Security Unit and the (Senior) Research Fellows of the other Programmes of the Unit (Strategic Foresight & Intelligence, Connected Security and the Russia & Eastern Europe Centre). He/she would furthermore be expected to actively engage with other colleagues within the Research Department as well as with the Academy and the Corporate Staff.
Relevant tasks are:
- To conduct and lead research as part of the multi-disciplinary research programmes of the Security Unit. This involves participation in and, as appropriate, management of internal, external, or mixed research teams, coordination of research inputs throughout the project cycle, communication with clients and partners, under the supervision of the Head of the Security and Defence Programme/ Senior Research Fellow.
- To plan, prepare and conduct research on a wide range of security and defence matters.
- To contribute to the acquisition of research projects, to develop and write research proposals in response to client requests and tenders.
- Dissemination of research output, through publications, consultations, working groups, expert meetings, etc.
- As required, to respond to media requests in the area of competence.
- Following debates and contributing to events (conferences, seminars, debates, etc.) on topics in the area of competence.
Qualifications and experience
We would be interested if the following requirements are met:
- Master’s degree in international relations, political science, security studies, modern history or a related field plus several years of relevant working experience in the public or private sector, academia or think-tanks.
- Knowledge of security and defence issues in the broadest sense.
- Knowledge of security actors, such as diplomats, armed forces, and intelligence & security services.
- Knowledge of relevant multilateral organisations in particular the EU and NATO. Professional experience in (one of these) organisations would be an advantage.
- Knowledge of specific issues such as European defence co-operation, responses to hybrid threats, arms control or military capabilities and industry would be an advantage.
- Proven ability to deliver tailored analyses and relevant advice to policy-makers.
- Proven analytical qualities, and writing and briefing skills that are supported by publications, reports, articles and/or blogs.
- Proven ability at networking and working with clients and research partners.
- Expertise in gathering and analysing qualitative data, including conducting interviews and consulting subject matter expert groups. Expertise in analysing quantitative data and visualization thereof is desirable.
- Professional fluency and writing skills in English is required; knowledge of the Dutch language is desirable.
- Service minded, excellent social skills, capable of reaching deadlines.
- Capable of working independently on the basis of instructions, but also a team player.
- Network-oriented, feeling at home in an international research environment.
Salary
The salary depends on the level of education and working experience, guideline is scale 10-12 CAO Rijk based on a 36-hour working week. The contract is initially valid for a period of one year with the option on renewal.
Interested?
You can apply via the ‘Apply-now button at the top of this vacancy. Deadline for response is 7 May 2024.