Hiring for positions at the Columbia University Middle East Research Center is determined by a committee of senior staff. In addition to full-time staff positions, the Center also hires part-time or contract staff and recruits student researchers for internship placements. Current vacancies are listed below.

Research Assistant (2 vacancies)

Responsibilities: Conduct both literature and field research. Draft reports and prepare presentation on research topic.  Help coordinate stakeholder seminars and other events. Assist with other CUMERC programs as needed.

Requirements: Contract position for one year.

  • Minimum two years' work experience in a related field
  • Master's degree in social sciences
  • Arabic and English fluency (written and spoken)
  • Flexibility, teamwork and ability to meet tight deadlines

Send CV and cover letter to Senior Academic Manager, Nisreen Haj Ahmad.

Internship Program

Internships at the Columbia University Middle East Research Center are available on a year-round basis in a range of fields, including: the arts, architecture, social work, alumni outreach, sustainability, and research support. Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume for consideration. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed, and the following information must be outlined in the cover letter:

  • Dates of availability
  • Description of academic interests
  • Subject-area preference and statement about interest in interning at CUMERC
  • Three references, including contact information and relationship to applicants

Candidates for the internship program should send materials to Jolie Nubani, Program Operations Officer.

Visiting Scholars Program

Faculty members who are conducting research on the region are invited to apply for CUMERC’s visiting scholars program. The program is not restricted to Columbia University faculty, though Columbia-affiliates are encouraged to apply. The Center offers a research base in Amman, use of an office, limited administrative support, and access to CUMERC’s network in the Middle East. Candidates will be selected on the basis of the Center’s research priorities, which are broad ranging and include sustainability, education, public health, the arts, and politics. Interested faculty should send CVs and a statement of interest to Nisreen Haj Ahmad.