The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) 2026: China Researcher Wanted – Hybrid & Remote

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) is currently seeking a highly motivated China Researcher to join its open-source intelligence team. This hybrid, home-based position offers researchers the opportunity to contribute to critical analysis on China’s foreign policy, national security, and military developments. The role is designed for professionals passionate about producing policy-relevant research to inform U.S. decision-makers and coalition partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

About the Institute for the Study of War

Founded to provide objective, real-time intelligence, ISW supports policymakers, military leaders, and humanitarian organizations with timely, evidence-based analysis of global conflict. ISW’s mission is twofold: to produce actionable insights for decision-makers and to educate the next generation of national security leaders. Its research centers include the General Jack Keane Center for National Security and the General David H. Petraeus Center for Emerging Leaders, which focus on bridging gaps between civilian and military perspectives.

ISW is widely recognized for its ability to anticipate emerging crises and provide accurate analysis of conflict dynamics. Researchers at ISW gain exposure to high-impact projects and have opportunities to publish under their own byline, shaping policy debates on national and international security.

Position Overview

The China Researcher will join the China Portfolio, supporting the Alternative Strategies for the Coalition Defense of Taiwan (CDOT) project. This joint effort with the American Enterprise Institute focuses on developing strategic approaches to deter conflict in Taiwan and strengthen U.S. and allied interests in the Indo-Pacific.

The role involves conducting open-source intelligence (OSINT) research, synthesizing complex information, and producing actionable insights for U.S. policymakers. The researcher will also mentor and manage interns, helping them develop analytical and research skills while contributing to ISW’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

The China Researcher will:

• Provide expert analysis on China’s political, military, and security developments.
• Focus on China-Taiwan relations, with secondary coverage of the Korean Peninsula, South China Sea, and regional dynamics.
• Synthesize open-source information into reports, forecasts, and briefings for policymakers and decision-makers.
• Identify potential policy options for the United States and coalition partners.
• Collaborate with researchers across other regions, including Russia and the Middle East, to generate cross-regional insights.
• Author and co-author short, medium, and long-form intelligence products, ensuring adherence to ISW’s writing standards.
• Enforce rigorous processes for data acquisition, validation, and management.
• Mentor research interns and provide guidance on professional development, research methodology, and publication standards.

Required Qualifications

Candidates should meet the following criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree in a field related to ISW’s research mission; a Master’s degree preferred.
• Professional working proficiency in Mandarin Chinese, with a minimum of two years of study.
• Strong understanding of Chinese political and military dynamics, regional security, and allied perspectives.
• Exceptional writing skills with the ability to develop clear, evidence-based arguments.
• Experience conducting independent, detail-oriented research.
• Ability to convey findings through briefings, reports, and graphical representations.
• Familiarity with tools such as ArcGIS and other data-driven analytic software is a plus.
• Passion for professional development in public speaking and briefing senior-level decision-makers.
• Strong curiosity, initiative, and commitment to ISW’s research agenda.

Professional Development and Career Growth

ISW provides researchers with opportunities to:

• Publish under their own byline, enhancing professional visibility and credibility.
• Engage in policy-relevant research that directly impacts U.S. and allied national security strategies.
• Collaborate with leading experts in international security, defense policy, and regional studies.
• Develop mentoring and leadership skills by guiding research interns and junior analysts.

Work Environment

This role is home-based with hybrid flexibility, enabling researchers to contribute from anywhere while engaging with a collaborative, highly motivated team. Researchers must be self-motivated and able to manage multiple responsibilities, including mentorship, research deadlines, and publication requirements.

Why Join ISW

Joining ISW as a China Researcher offers a unique opportunity to shape U.S. strategic policy in the Indo-Pacific region. The position provides exposure to high-profile projects, fosters professional growth, and allows researchers to contribute meaningfully to global security analysis. ISW values rigor, independence, and actionable insights, making it an ideal environment for those passionate about understanding and mitigating conflict.

How to Apply

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Candidates should submit a letter of interest, CV, and academic or professional writing sample. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience.

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