Deadline: Not yet stated/Ongoing
The Senior Expert for China and Africa will be responsible for leading substantive research and analysis on China’s impact on conflict dynamics in Africa, with a particular emphasis on Nigeria, the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, and/or the Red Sea arena. This person will cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders working on issues related to China in Africa and help USIP design and implement its research agenda and programming work in this field.
The Senior Expert will report to the Director for East and Southeast Asia Programs and work closely with the Director for Africa Programs, members of the Africa team, and other colleagues across USIP. This is a full-time position based in Washington, DC, with some international travel required.
The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) represents the American people’s shared values and commitment to peace around the world. USIP know that Peace is Security – it advances both U.S. and international security by preventing, managing and mitigating violent conflict.
USIP is an independent, non-partisan institution and actively engaged with peacebuilding efforts around the world.
Target Salary Range:
Grade 14 – $121,000 – $125,000
The Institute uses the General Schedule salary tables for administering compensation. Offers of employment are determined based upon candidate qualifications, related experience, internal equity and amount budgeted for the position.
Responsibilities:
Research, Analysis, and Thought Leadership:
- Serves as an expert on China’s impact on conflict dynamics in Africa, with a particular emphasis on Nigeria, the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, and/or the Red Sea arena.
- Researches and writes on topics relevant to USIP’s work.
- Provides briefings to governmental or other organizations on China and Africa.
- Responds to public queries and media requests regarding China and Africa.
- Supports or leads efforts to represent the program in internal and external events and to disseminate information about USIP’s programs and research findings.
- Proposes innovative research and programming to advance USIP’s mission.
- Liaises closely with key stakeholders in the United States, Asia, Africa, and around the world.
Development and Planning:
- Working with the Director for East and Southeast Asia Programs and the Director for Africa Programs, supports or leads the development and implementation of research projects and other program activities related to China and Africa.
- Helps structure and execute program activities and events related to China’s impact on conflict dynamics in Africa.
- Identifies and maintains critical stakeholder relationships related to the program.
- Ensures the highest level of communication and cooperation with relevant USIP departments/divisions/teams and external partners.
- Participates in strategic planning sessions with regional and thematic teams.
- Keeps up-to-date on new research and programs as they relate to USIP’s work.
Financial Management:
- Pursues U.S. government funding for project initiatives.
- Manages project budgets and ensures activities are implemented within program timelines and in a manner that meets program standards and objectives.
- Oversees development and submission of project progress reports as required.
Other:
- Travels around the United States or internationally as required.
- Performs other duties as assigned
Eligibilities:
- Master’s, PhD or JD degree in political science, international affairs, law, or related field.
- A minimum of eight (8) years of related work experience, including experience with U.S. government policymaking.
- A minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience working in/on China and Africa, with a particular emphasis on Nigeria, the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, and/or the Red Sea arena.
- Knowledge and understanding of conflict dynamics in Africa, China’s engagement and influence in fragile states in Africa, and best practices of conflict management and peacebuilding.
- Demonstrated research, analytic, and writing skills, and excellent communication skills. Ability to write effectively in a variety of formats and for a variety of audiences.
- Demonstrated experience coordinating with officials in government, international organizations, and national partners.
- Fluency in English required. Working proficiency in Mandarin Chinese desired.
How To Apply:
To be considered for this position, please submit a complete application package consisting of:
- Completed employment application including titles, dates of hire and salary requirements.
- Cover letter
- Resume
