Junior Research Assistant

Part-time

Staff positions

October 22, 2025


Reports to: The director of IRIS
Position type: Part- Time, Project Based 
Deadline for Submission: November 1, 2025

 

About the Project:

The Institute of Regional and International Studies (IRIS) at the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani (AUIS) is conducting a research initiative examining the intersection of climate change, health, and displacement in Iraq. The project aims to generate evidence-based insights into the drivers of displacement and their impact on internally displaced persons (IDPs), with the goal of shaping effective policy and humanitarian responses.
 

Position Overview:

The Junior Research Assistant will play a critical role in supporting the project’s data collection and analysis efforts. The position involves a heavy focus on transcription, translation, and data management. The ideal candidate will be fluent in Arabic, and English, with strong skills in translating audio interviews and ensuring accurate and nuanced transcriptions. Candidates with prior experience in qualitative research and analysis, are strongly encouraged to apply.
 


Key Responsibilities:

The ideal candidate exhibits the following characteristics:

  • Assist in transcribe and translate interviews with IDPs and other stakeholders from Arabic into English, and when required, from English back into Arabic.
  • Ensure accuracy, clarity, and contextual sensitivity in all transcriptions and translations.
  • Support data management processes, including organizing transcripts, coding Interviews, and maintaining secure data storage.
  • Assist in qualitative data analysis and contribute to the development of research findings.
  • Collaborate with the IRIS research team to ensure alignment and high-quality outputs.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Humanities, or a related field.
  • Fluency in Arabic and English (written and spoken).
  • Demonstrated experience in qualitative research, especially transcription, translation, and analysis.
  • Previous experience collaborating with academic research consortia or working on Large -scale research grants is highly desirable.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.
  • Excellent organizational skills and ability to meet tight deadlines.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and cultural sensitivity when working with vulnerable populations, including IDPs.

Applicants should submit the following documents via email, with “Junior Research Assistant” in the subject line, to [email protected]:  
 

  • Cover letter
  • Curriculum vitae

No telephone calls, please. While we thank all applicants for their interest, only those under consideration will be contacted for a follow-up interview. AUIS is an Affirmative Action / Equal Employment Opportunity employer that believes cultural diversity is essential to education.


Apply Online