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Carnegie Mellon University · 2 weeks ago

Research Assistant to the Director - Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology (CMIST)

Pittsburgh, PA

Part-time

Hybrid

New Grad, Entry Level

$18/hr - $30/hr

Carnegie Mellon University is a prestigious institution known for its leadership in computer science and interdisciplinary research. The CMIST is seeking part-time research assistants to support analytical projects on Strategy and Technology, focusing on national security and emerging technologies. Candidates will work directly with the Director and engage in high-quality research and analysis to inform contemporary security challenges.

EducationHigher EducationUniversities

Growth Opportunities

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Conduct high-quality research using online databases, in-person archives, and research libraries

Locate and analyze hard-to-find sources, including tracking down works in local archives and/or the Library of Congress

Write advanced summaries of major arguments and prominent sources (without relying primarily on LLMs)

Draft literature reviews

Support data collection, database management, and the conceptualization of data-supported research

Conduct structured interviews with D.C.-based experts and policymakers

Manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines

Exceptional organizational skills

Strong writing and editing skills, including excellent grammar

Careful attention to detail and meticulous fact-checking

Ability to manage bibliographies, footnotes, endnotes, and other elements of complex manuscripts

Ability to locate images or graphics to accompany publications

Other editorial or administrative tasks as assigned

Qualification

Research skillsNational security knowledgeWriting skillsComputer competencyJudgementAttention to detailOrganizational skillsAdaptability

Required

Bachelor's degree or higher in an area relevant to national security, strategy and technology (e.g., political science, history, strategic studies, international relations; or a relevant STEM area such as biology, computer science, or robotic engineering, etc.)

Willingness to maintain confidentiality

Computer competency, including but not limited to Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), Google Workplace (Gmail, contacts, calendar, docs, etc.), Zoom

Willingness to go occasionally to the Washington Office of CMIST (located on Capitol Hill)

A writing sample that also demonstrates advanced research skills is required

Responsible, self-disciplined worker who takes initiative and follows through

A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered

Interest in researching, analyzing, and writing on strategy and technology

Good judgement on reliability of sources—i.e., able to differentiate between primary, secondary, and popular or superficial information

Some background or knowledge of science and technology, especially emerging technologies and defense applications