Project Associate, Political and Security Affairs

Company: The National Bureau of Asian Research
Location: Washington
Posted on: April 2, 2026

Job Description:

Project Associate, Political and Security Affairs The National Bureau of Asian Research (NBR) is seeking a Project Associate for the Political and Security Affairs (PSA) group to provide project support for NBR's portfolio of research projects focusing on political and security issues across the Indo-Pacific region, including China's military modernization, U.S. alliance strategy in Asia, North Korean nuclear and ballistic missile programs, and more. Depending on a candidate's experience, the position of Senior Project Associate may be considered. A Sr. Project Associate operates with an increased level of independence and responsibility compared to Project Associates. Based in NBR's Washington, DC office, this is a paid, full-time (40hr/week), special assignment (12 month) position reporting to the Director of Political and Security Affairs. Project Associate is a stepping-stone position intended to prepare the Associate for a Project Manager-level role. Responsibilities Project Management: Liaise with project experts, manage project deadlines, and assist in monitoring budgets. Prepare written project materials including, web-content, and grant reports. Coordinate project documentation with Project Managers and Directors. Project Development: Assist with development of project concepts and grant proposals. Research Support: Provide substantive research assistance for project teams and scholars, including summarizing research papers and undertaking literature reviews. Publications Support: Review, edit, format and fact-check project publications, providing valuable feedback to enhance the quality of NBR's content. Event Support: Support team events (conferences, workshops, presentations, and briefings) by drafting agendas, coordinating invitations, assisting with travel, accommodation, and venue arrangements. Staff Management: Assist Project Managers and Directors with management of interns and fellows by delegating tasks, setting deadlines, and communicating expectations. Database Administration: Manage and update project databases to ensure the efficient organization and accessibility of project-related information. Participate actively in and support various NBR activities and initiatives as required. Qualifications Project Associate Bachelor's degree in security studies, Asia Studies, international relations, foreign policy, or other relevant discipline At least 1 year of research assistance and/or administrative support experience in the U.S.-Asia policy field. Proficient knowledge and understanding of US-Asia relations and political and security issues in the Indo-Pacific region. Excellent research and communication skills, with a strong attention to detail. Self-motivated with ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Senior Project Associate Bachelor's degree in security studies, Asia Studies, international relations, foreign policy, or other relevant discipline At least 2 years of research assistance and/or administrative support experience in the U.S.-Asia policy field. Proficient knowledge and understanding of US-Asia relations and political and security issues in the Indo-Pacific region. Excellent research and communication skills, with a strong attention to detail. Self-motivated with ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Preferred Qualifications Master's Degree in a relevant field. Proficiency in Mandarin Chinese or other Asian language. Experience providing support on U.S. government-funded projects. Familiarity with experts working on Indo-Pacific security issues in the United States and Indo-Pacific region. Application Instructions The application period for this position will close on April 3, 2026, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. To apply, submit the following materials with your application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Cover letter summarizing your experience as it applies to the outlined responsibilities and qualifications. Resume Recent 3-5 page writing sample that has not been edited by anyone else. As you progress through the screening and interview process, please be prepared to provide the following: Contact information for 3 professional and/or academic references ( Will not be contacted until final interview stage). Additional Information This is a hybrid position based in our Washington, DC office. Full-Time staff are expected to work in-office at least two days per week. The expected pay range for the Project Associate position is $23.00 to $23.75 per hour, depending on education. The expected pay range for the Senior Project Associate position is $24.75 to $25.25 per hour, depending on education. This full-time position includes medical, dental and vision benefits for employees and their family, company contributions to an FSA or HSA, and paid time off. NBR's paid time off includes 10 days of vacation (awarded as 3.33 hours per pay period), 25 paid company holidays per year, (including 2 floating holidays), up to 56 hours of paid sick leave (pro-rated if joining mid-year), and 2 days of paid professional development leave. Additionally, NBR offers 4-weeks of paid Sabbatical leave for all full-time staff after every 5 years of service. NBR covers 80% of employees' Public Transit commuting costs. NBR is committed to a workplace where inclusion is not only valued but prioritized. We're an equal opportunity employer and strive to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, pregnancy or parental status, creed, military or veteran status, religion, ancestry, or national origin, disability, or other status or characteristic protected by applicable law. Applicants must successfully pass a background check, which will be conducted in accordance with Seattle's Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17. Applicants will be given a chance to explain or correct background information and provide verifiable information of good conduct and rehabilitation. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during either the application or the recruiting process, please email your request to employment@nbr.org .

Keywords: The National Bureau of Asian Research, Annandale , Project Associate, Political and Security Affairs, Science, Research & Development , Washington, Virginia