Social Science Research Assistant

School/Unit Description

Stanford University’s Center for International Security and Cooperation (CISAC) is one of the nation’s leading interdisciplinary, university-based research and training centers addressing critical international security issues. The Center draws on scholars from a range of disciplines, integrating political, regional, and scientific expertise in international affairs, and applying this expertise to policy-relevant solutions.

Professor Oriana Mastro is seeking a full-time research assistant with first-rate analytical capabilities and outstanding academic credentials to conduct social science research, draft reports, support teaching and lecture activities, and assist with a range of administrative and communication needs. The Research Assistant will support an ongoing book project on China‑Russia military relationship as well as a number of major ongoing research initiatives on deterrence and escalation over Taiwan, Chinese overseas interests, and Beijing’s relationship with the developing world.

The Research Assistant will also be supporting a teaching portfolio on international security and Chinese military strategy and security policy.

• Conducting literature reviews, revising and editing documents, fact‑finding and checking
• Assist with proposals and reports, competitive grant submissions, including drafting and keeping track of budget projections and expenditures
• Supporting teaching and external speaking engagements by preparing presentations, updating lecture materials, and producing related correspondence
• Serve as a lead Research Assistant for student RAs, including organizing and delegating tasks; reviewing work products, and providing feedback
• Manage a very busy calendar; arrange domestic and international travel, and complete reimbursements and payments
• Assisting with updates to Dr. Mastro’s and related program webpages, including posting publications and event announcements in coordination with Stanford communications offices.

This is a one‑year fixed‑term position. The position will begin July/August 2026 and may be extended based on programmatic need and funding availability.

• Plan and perform research tasks requiring initiative and judgment by applying basic knowledge and understanding of scientific theory when precedents do not provide specific guidance. General instruction provided by the supervisor as needed. May interpret study results in collaboration with supervisor or PI.
• Participate in the development and administration of survey instruments and rating scales requiring judgment in applying non‑routine procedures. Analyze and summarize results for review with supervisor. Audit the accuracy and validity of data.
• Review and audit case report forms for completion and accuracy with source documents, and ensure compliance with research protocols.
• Identify, select, extract and summarize data and structured information. Present summary of findings to supervisor.
• Conduct literature searches, and write literature summaries and manuscripts, requiring preliminary judgments after the supervisor outlines conceptual approach.
• Build and organize data as requested by principal investigator or supervisor; use common statistical programs requiring the application of job control language in generating and organizing data.
• Adapt new, nonstandard methods outlined by supervisor in designing and evaluating phases of research projects, (i.e., educational materials, questionnaires, strategies for recruitment, data quality control procedures and processes). May follow up with Institutional Review Board (IRB) to ensure renewals are approved and completed, seeking guidance where necessary.
• Assist with development, communication and design of research findings to internal and external audiences, which may include web updates, social media, and/or white papers, for use in recruitment, educational, or awareness of programs, with guidance from supervisor.
• May orient and train new staff or students.

Education & Experience:

Bachelor of Arts degree in an applicable social science related field, or combination of education and relevant experience in…