Lead Researcher (Political & Security Affairs) [1 year contract]

ISEAS -Yusof Ishak Institute
Lead Researcher (Political & Security Affairs)
What the role is
Lead Researcher (Political & Security Affairs) [1 year contract]
What you will be working on
This is a mid- to senior-level position for a researcher on ASEAN political and security matters. Candidates should have published works and/or policy-papers and possess relevant work experience. The contract would be for a duration of one year, with possibility of extension.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Undertake policy-relevant research on ASEAN’s political and security development
- Production Editor for ASEANFocus and assist the Managing Editor in coordinating and managing content, and liaising with prospective contributors, designers, and publisher
- Produce policy papers, commentaries, academic papers
- Conduct lectures, talks and briefings on ASEAN institutional, political and security issues
- Assist in the organization and management of conferences, workshops, webinars, and outreach programmes
- Design and deliver capacity-building programmes and specialised training courses on ASEAN and regional political–security issues for diplomats, civil servants and external partners
- Participate in the planning, research design, data analysis and publication of the annual State of Southeast Asia survey
- Engage with regional and international media to communicate research insights and provide expert commentary on ASEAN political-security issues
- Assist the Coordinator as necessary
What we are looking for
Requirements:
- Post-graduate degree in Political Science; Southeast Asian Studies, Asian Studies, International Relations, or a relevant degree
- Strong inter-disciplinary background and able to conduct unsupervised research and publish on a range of political and security issues
- A minimum 7 years of work experience on regional political and security issues
- A strong interest in ASEAN, particularly the ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC)
- A track record of policy-related research and writing would be highly regarded
- Good communication and writing skills in English
- The applicant must be a citizen from one of the ASEAN Member States.
- Positive work attitude and ability to work under demanding circumstances.
- Team spirit and a high sense of professionalism
Applications should include a cover letter, a full CV, two reference letters, a writing sample and a one-page description of the proposed area of research.
Remuneration and benefits will depend on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.
About your application process
This job is closing on 18 Dec 2025.
If you do not hear from us within 4 weeks of the job ad closing date, we seek your understanding that it is likely that we are not moving forward with your application for this role. We thank you for your interest and would like to assure you that this does not affect your other job applications with the Public Service. We encourage you to explore and apply for other roles within ISEAS -Yusof Ishak Institute or the wider Public Service.
About ISEAS -Yusof Ishak Institute
Learn more about ISEAS -Yusof Ishak Institute