Senior Fellow

The Middle East Institute is establishing an exciting new program on Middle East transitions and is looking for a senior fellow with regional expertise with a focus on any of the following areas: Egypt/North Africa/the Levant. The scholar will be part of a program whose mission is to examine the challenges posed by the political and social transformations underway in the Middle East arising out of the Arab uprisings of 2011 with a focus on good governance, institution-building, and political movements. The scholar will be responsible for generating original research and analysis, including policy papers and op-eds; working with MEI staff to program conferences and roundtables, engaging actively with the media; giving talks and presentations; and working closely with other MEI scholars.

The successful candidate must have a track record as a well-published policy expert with expertise in Egypt, Middle East politics and society, Islamist and opposition movements, and democracy and reform-related issues. Strong writing and speaking skills in English are essential. Arabic fluency preferred.

Job Responsibilities:

• The senior fellow will work with a program director to define their areas of focus, and produce original research in the form of policy papers and analysis.
• Publish op-eds and analysis in media outlets and independent publications, as well as on the MEI website.
• Publicize research by presenting at conferences and panels throughout the U.S. and internationally.
• Actively engage with the media through regular broadcast and print appearances; oversee and participate in a dynamic social media strategy.
• Organize regular panels and roundtables featuring voices and ideas from the region.
• Travel to the region to conduct original research.
• Provide consultations for government, Congress, and corporate officials.
• Write foundation grants and solicit support to ensure the program’s long-term sustainability.

• The successful candidate must have strong regional expertise, with a portfolio of published scholarly research focused on the Arab world.
• Ideally the candidate will have an advanced degree in International Relations, Political Science, or a closely related field. A minimum of 3-5 years of work experience preferred.
• Ability to research and write both long-form policy papers and op-eds on deadline and in a pressured environment.
• Excellent English writing and speaking skills are required; some fluency in Arabic is preferred.
• Excellent leadership and communications skills. Must be able to work closely and collaboratively with MEI staff and scholars, as well as to engage and build relationships with partner institutions, policymakers, and U.S. and foreign government officials.

To apply, please send your resume, cover letter, writing samples and salary expectations to jobs@mei.edu, with "Senior Fellow" in the subject line.