Calls for applications for the Observatory on EU-MENA Relations 2024-2025 are now OPEN!

Position: Research Fellow

Number of available posts: 4

Deadline: 5 October 2024 at 23.59 CET

Note:  Profiles will be examined on a rolling basis. The Observatory reserves the right to close the call earlier if all the positions are filled.

The European Student Think Tank (EST) is currently seeking four new team members with an interest in North Africa, the Sahel, the Levant or the Gulf to join the Observatory on EU-MENA Relations.

What’s the prospect?

The Observatory EU-MENA Relations is the EST’s branch that monitors, analyses and researches the EU’s engagement with the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Through an innovative and multidisciplinary approach, the goal of the Observatory is to produce rigorous research and analysis on the dynamics that shape EU-MENA relations. In addition to research papers, policy briefs and commentaries, the Observatory produces an annual peer-reviewed issue, a bi-monthly newsletter InsideMENA, a monthly podcast MENA Stories, infographics, and organises events and webinars. The Observatory provides its members with a multicultural space to share their knowledge fruitfully and encourage a prolific dialogue about two different yet interconnected regions.

What is my role?

As a research fellow of the Observatory, your main responsibility will be to monitor and conduct research on your region of interest in the MENA from various angles, including geopolitics, diplomacy, human rights, economics, and climate change. You will be involved in the Observatory’s podcast, newsletter, peer-reviewed annual issue. You will also have the opportunity to produce infographics in accordance with the Observatory’s strategy. 

The Observatory platform allowS you to organise events and workshops, participate in debates and interact with young researchers, professionals and policymakers. Being part of the Observatory also means joining a wide-ranging network of engaged students and young professionals, as well as acquiring key professional skills in academic writing, analysis and project management. As a youth-led group, we coordinate online and put great emphasis on granting volunteers a space for their primary responsibilities at university and work. You should expect to commit an average of 4-6 hours per week. 

What is the Observatory looking for?

  • Master’s students, PhDs or young professionals (Bachelor’s students will also be considered and are strongly encouraged to apply);
  • Graduate or enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate courses in MENA Studies, Peace and Conflict, Development, Law, International Relations and International Studies, Political Science, Economics, History, Cultural Studies, Linguistics and related courses;
  • Strong interest in one of the following areas: North Africa; the Sahel; Levant (preference for Israel, Palestine, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan); the Gulf. 
  • Experience in writing, editing, communication and independent research. Professional experience and previous publications (also non-academic) are a plus;
  • Previous experience, including internships, volunteering work, fellowships, etc. desired but not required; 
  • Fluency in English (C1 or above); 
  • Working or conversational knowledge of French and/or Arabic is an asset.
  • Strong commitment, originality, curiosity and aptitude for innovation.

Please, we strongly encourage you to apply even if you do not fit all the requirements listed above!

What’s next?

If we sparked your interest and you believe that you would be a good fit, please apply by 5 October 2024 at 23.59 CEST by sending:

  • Your CV (2 pages maximum);
  • A one-page cover letter outlining your motivation, interests and skills;
  • A written sample on a relevant topic (there is no word limit). 

Note: all the documents must be in English.

Please be aware that the EST will request a symbolic 5€ membership fee per term (from the moment of appointment until the 31st of July 2025) that will contribute to cover the administrative costs of the organisation.

If you are interested in being part of the Observatory on EU-MENA Relations, fill out the following form by 5 October 2024: https://forms.gle/TY3LVnDd3kbj5huk8 

 We look forward to receiving your application!

 We look forward to receiving your application!