USAJOBS · 3 weeks ago
Research Analyst
The U.S. Department of State is offering a Semester of Service Program for students to engage in a volunteer project-based opportunity that supports Federal missions. The role involves conducting research and analysis on political issues in the Western Hemisphere, providing valuable experience and skills in policy research and analysis.
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Responsibilities
The student volunteer will conduct research and analysis on cross-cutting political issues in the Western Hemisphere, selecting from several possible project areas based on Bureau priorities and student interests
Project options include:
(1) mapping external actor engagement (China, Russia, Iran) across the region through publicly available diplomatic, economic, and cultural data
(2) tracking U.S. congressional legislation related to Western Hemisphere issues and creating a searchable database with biweekly summary reports
(3) compiling a comparative analysis of how WHA countries designate and legislate against transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs), identifying legislative frameworks and gaps; or
(4) researching and mapping publicly reported cartel structures and transnational linkages in Latin America using open-source information
Each project involves research using publicly available sources, data compilation and visualization, preparation of summary briefs or reports, and creation of reference tools such as databases, annotated bibliographies, or visual maps
This 10-12 week project will provide the student with valuable exposure to Western Hemisphere security issues, strategic competition dynamics, legislative processes, and policy research skills under the guidance of a designated WHA/PPC officer
The final deliverables will support WHA's policy planning efforts by providing accessible reference tools and analytical summaries on key regional challenges
Qualification
Required
Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S National studying in the U.S
Students must be enrolled not less than half-time in an accredited trade school, technical or vocational institute, junior college, college, university, or other accredited educational institution
Students must be in good academic standing as defined by their institution
Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 out of 4.0 scale
Commit to volunteering 8 – 20 hours per week for a minimum of 90 days
Complete all required onboarding documentation assigned by the Federal agency and your academic institution
Agree to volunteer. This position is unpaid. No compensation, stipends, or hiring preference will be granted from this work
Agree to understanding volunteers are not Federal employees
Demonstrate strong research and analytical skills, including the ability to gather, assess, and synthesize information from a variety of sources
Excellent written communication and technical writing abilities
Preferred
Prefer students be seniors in undergraduate programs or Graduate students
Benefits
Professional experience: Meaningful project work with clear deliverables, regular supervision and federal mentorship.
Skill Development: Hands-on application of academic knowledge in real-world Federal operations.
Career Exploration: Exposure to Federal missions, workplace culture, and potential career pathways.
Company
USAJOBS
USAJOBS enables federal job seekers to access job opportunities across hundreds of federal agencies and organizations.
Funding
Current Stage
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