Resident Research Fellow, Iraq Initiative

Job Location: Baghdad, Iraq
Employment Type: N/A
Seniority Level: N/A
Job Category: Consultant

About the Iraq Initiative:

The Iraq Initiative drives policy-oriented programs and analysis that advance Iraq’s stability and sovereignty, promote regional integration, and support democratic and economic development. The Iraq Initiative provides policymakers with unique perspectives from within Iraq and offers Iraqi decision-makers insights into Washington’s priorities. With strong networks in Washington, Baghdad, and Erbil, the Iraq Initiative propels policy debate, elevates fresh voices, and delivers pragmatic policy recommendations that advance US and Iraqi national interests.

Overview of the Role

The Iraq Initiative seeks a highly qualified, Baghdad-based Resident Research Fellow to lead in-country research, analysis, and editorial production on Iraqi political, security, and economic dynamics.

This role requires deep understanding of Iraq’s political ecosystem across the full spectrum — including federal institutions, Shia political movements, Sunni and Kurdish actors, as well as civil society voices. The fellow must have strong contacts with the full range of Iraqi political parties and movements and should not be aligned with any political party. The fellow should have expertise on both state and non-state security actors, including the role and capabilities of the official Iraqi security institutions and the militias. The successful candidate will possess strong analytical rigor, excellent writing and editing skills in English (Arabic fluency required), and the ability to cultivate and leverage high-level relationships across political, civil society, and policy communities.

This is a policy research position. It is not a journalism role. The fellow will produce structured, policy-relevant analysis designed to inform decision-makers in Washington and Baghdad.

The position bridges in-country insight with Washington-based programming and will play a central role in shaping the Initiative’s research agenda.

This position is based in Baghdad. The Atlantic Council offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, education, and organizational equity, with offers from $2,000 – $3,000 per month. Applications submitted by July 31, 2026, will be prioritized for consideration.

Job Responsibilities

Policy Research & Analysis

• Lead in-depth research on Iraqi political dynamics, governance trends, militia influence, state capacity, economic reform, regional integration, and foreign policy positioning.
• Produce long-form reports, policy briefs, issue memos, and analytical papers targeted toward policymakers.
• Monitor and analyze parliamentary developments, cabinet dynamics, inter-factional negotiations, and security sector shifts.
• Provide rapid-response analysis during periods of political crisis or major developments.

Editorial Oversight & Research Management

• Oversee and coordinate in-country research projects, including supervising research assistants or contributors as needed.
• Edit and refine drafts produced by nonresident fellows and contributors to ensure analytical rigor and policy relevance.
• Ensure high standards of sourcing, methodological clarity, and strategic framing.
• Conduct literature reviews and identify research gaps relevant to the Initiative’s priorities.

Network Development & Stakeholder Engagement

• Maintain and expand relationships across Iraqi political parties, government officials, parliamentary advisors, security actors, civil society leaders, technocrats, and private sector stakeholders.
• Serve as a trusted interlocutor between Iraqi policymakers and the Atlantic Council.
• Convene small roundtables or expert consultations in Baghdad as needed.
• Support senior Atlantic Council leadership during visits to Iraq by arranging meetings and providing political briefings.

Programming & Strategic Input

• Contribute to shaping the Iraq Initiative’s annual research priorities.
• Support event development by advising on speakers, themes, and policy framing.
• Participate in public and private events (as appropriate) representing the Initiative.

Limited Business Development Support

• Contribute analytical input to concept notes and proposals.
• Provide context and content for donor briefings and background materials.

Qualifications

• MA or PhD in Political Science, International Relations, Public Policy, Middle East Studies, or related field (PhD strongly preferred).
• Minimum 7–10 years of relevant professional experience in policy research, academia, advisory roles, or political analysis.
• Demonstrated expertise in Iraqi politics and governance across factions and institutions.
• Strong English writing and editing skills suitable for publication in policy outlets.
• Native or near-native Arabic fluency required.
• Proven ability to manage complex research projects independently.
• Established professional networks within Iraqi political and policy circles.
• Experience engaging senior government officials and political stakeholders.
• Ability to work autonomously in a dynamic and politically sensitive environment.

To produce quality work and to successfully achieve our mission, we recognize the need for our staff to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a work/life balance. Our comprehensive benefits package helps to keep costs low for our staff and their families. Benefits include, but are not limited to comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance, paid time off, 403(b) plan, FSA options, pet insurance, Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility, and wellness benefits.

About the Program

The Iraq Initiative is driving policy-oriented programs and analysis that advance Iraq’s stability and sovereignty, regional integration, and democratic and economic development. It also aims to promote a strengthened US-Iraq partnership.

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