Research Assistant – U.S. Immigration Policy Program at the Migration Policy Institute (MPI)
The Migration Policy Institute in Washington, D.C. is seeking a Research Assistant for its U.S. Immigration Policy Program. The position involves policy monitoring, qualitative and quantitative research, and publication support.
Overview
The Migration Policy Institute (MPI), an independent and nonpartisan think tank in Washington, D.C., is recruiting a Research Assistant to join its U.S. Immigration Policy Program. This role is designed for early-career professionals looking to build a career in public policy, immigration research, legal analysis, and international affairs. Successful candidates will collaborate with renowned policy experts to produce authoritative research that informs lawmakers, journalists, stakeholders, and the public.
Key responsibilities include monitoring U.S. immigration developments, conducting qualitative and quantitative policy research, cleaning and analyzing datasets, supporting interviews, assisting with publications, coordinating events, and providing project management and fundraising support.
Benefits
- Annual salary ranging from US$52,000 to US$67,000, determined by experience and qualifications
- Health insurance
- Retirement benefits
- Professional development opportunities
- Career advancement potential in a collaborative work environment
Eligibility
- Possess a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of one year of relevant experience, or demonstrate substantial relevant professional experience
- Strong analytical, research, and critical evaluation skills
- Excellent written English proficiency for drafting reports, policy briefs, and memoranda
- Foundational knowledge in at least two immigration policy areas, such as visa pathways, enforcement, border management, refugee resettlement, or asylum policy
- Familiarity with legal research or a willingness to learn
- High attention to detail, organization, time management, and collaboration skills
How to Apply
Interested applicants must prepare a cover letter, a resume, and one unedited, sole-authored writing sample. Files should be labeled with your last name, and the email subject line should read "Research Assistant, U.S. Program." Additionally, include a brief statement indicating how you learned about the vacancy.
Applications should be submitted via email to [email protected] or through the official application portal.
Deadline
The application deadline is August 24. Because applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, candidates are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible.