Research Associate; Transnational Crime Trends Project

Orion Policy Institute (OPI) is an independent non-profit think tank based in Washington, D.C. Our mission is to promote good governance, advance human rights, and improve policy through high-quality research. OPI seeks to generate practical and sustainable solutions based on multidisciplinary, diverse, and in-depth scientific research and analysis. We address a broad range of issues, including national and global security, democracy, human rights, political and economic development, peace building, conflict resolution, and various other issues at the local, national, and global levels.

Position

Description:

Orion Policy Institute is seeking a Research Associate – Transnational Crime Trends Project to join our dynamic team of researchers and policy analysts. The Research Associate will play a key role in supporting Orion’s research agenda by analyzing and contextualizing emerging patterns in transnational organized crime, including illicit trafficking, cyber-enabled networks, corruption, and financial crimes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support research and analysis on transnational organized crime trends, including illicit trafficking, financial crimes, cyber-enabled networks, corruption, and their intersections with governance, security, and development.
• Draft and contribute to op-eds, policy briefs, research papers, and reports that advance understanding of the evolving landscape of transnational crime and its global security implications.
• Monitor and synthesize developments in transnational crime, relevant legislation, and international cooperation efforts to inform Orion’s research and policy outputs.
• Work closely with senior fellows, researchers, and policy analysts to develop evidence-based, actionable policy recommendations aimed at strengthening resilience against transnational criminal networks.
• Maintain working knowledge of emerging technologies and financial systems that enable illicit activities, such as cryptocurrency, dark web operations, and surveillance technologies.
• Assist in the planning and coordination of webinars, round tables, and public events, including background research, event logistics, and note-taking.
• Contribute to drafting concept notes and funding proposals to support ongoing and future research initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required;
  Master’s degree preferred in international relations, security studies, criminology, political science, law, economics, or a related field.
• Skills in quantitative and/or qualitative research methods, with experience in designing and conducting rigorous studies.
• Strong writing and communication skills, with a track record of published research or policy papers.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote work environment.
• Demonstrated familiarity in one or more specific areas of international legal frameworks, multilateral cooperation mechanisms, and regional dynamics related to organized crime and illicit economies.
• Interest or prior experience engaging with policymakers, civil society, or industry stakeholders on crime, security, or governance issues is a plus.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit the following materials to careers.

• A cover letter outlining their interest and qualifications for the position.
• A current resume or CV.

• Entry level

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