Research Analyst and Programme Administrator for the Defence and Military Analysis Programme

Facts. Analysis. Influence.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is a defence and security think tank that has a deep understanding of regional geopolitics and geo-economics in a global context. Its international researchers provide best-in-class, independent and impartial analysis and offer insights on strategic challenges and priorities to governments and the private sector. It is expert at bringing together national leaders and senior policymakers in foreign policy, defence and security; promoting dialogue; and facilitating effective and influential bilateral and multilateral consultations.

We seek to appoint a Research Analyst and Programme Administrator who will be based in our London office. This position will assist the Defence and Military Analysis Programme in the implementation of the Missile Dialogue Initiative (MDI), a multi-year Track 1.5 project that seeks to strengthen international discussion and to promote a high-level exchange of views on missile technologies and related international security dynamics.

• Providing research support to the Missile Dialogue Initiative project by contributing to peer-reviews of commissioned research papers and acting as an interface between DMAP and the IISS Design and Editorial teams in the production of research outputs.
• Providing administrative and logistical support for the implementation of the MDI by organising workshops and conferences in coordination with the IISS events team.
• Generating, issuing, and tracking invitations, and assisting with arranging venue hire, accommodation, catering, and transportation.
• Maintaining correspondence and providing updates to project stakeholders. Coordinating the delivery of a monthly project newsletter with the IISS Communications team.
• Contribute to IISS research on arms control, missile technology, non-proliferation and strategic stability by helping with background research for IISS publications and drafting short analysis pieces for the MDI Updates and Developments blog.

• A degree in international relations, defence and security, or other relevant topics.
• Experience, preferably in an international environment, working on international security-related issues.
• Interest in arms control, missile technology, non-proliferation, or strategic stability.
• Experience organising workshops, conferences, and other events.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Some writing and publishing experience preferred.
• Computer literacy with excellent Microsoft skills.
• A keen eye for detail and great organisational skills.

Candidates should submit their applications by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ blue button above and follow the instructions to submit two documents:

• a cover letter outlining what skills and experience they can bring to the role.
• a full Curriculum Vitae (resume).

The deadline for receipt of application is 11 August 2026.

Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we will be unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Due to the volume of expected applications, only those selected for interview will be contacted.

The recruitment process will include an in-person interview at the candidate’s nearest IISS office. Candidates should be prepared to travel accordingly, if selected for progression.