ABOUT THE APLN 

The Asia-Pacific Leadership Network (APLN), is a Seoul-based organisation and network of political, military, diplomatic leaders and experts from across the Asia Pacific, working to address global security challenges, with a particular focus on reducing and eliminating nuclear weapons risks. Our activities are currently focused on addressing the DPRK denuclearization challenge, strategic rivalry and the China-US competition, China-India-Pakistan nuclear dynamics, and nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament. By producing high-quality research, engaging our network, conducting events, and undertaking advocacy, the APLN works to ensure that the diversity of voices from our region are more effectively heard in global security debates to achieve positive policy change.

WHAT WE NEED 

With a small staff, based in Seoul and across the region, we are looking to recruit talented new people and need an experienced individual to join our dynamic team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with policy and/or research experience and nuclear policy-related expertise. The role will involve working with political, military, diplomatic, and academic figures from across the Asia-Pacific and conducting policy-relevant research on issues such as China’s role in the region and nuclear deterrence and disarmament issues. By joining the APLN, you can help to make a practical and positive difference in peace and security. If you enjoy working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment in a growing Asia-based NGO then we would love to hear from you.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING 

As senior research adviser, you will play a key role in helping the APLN achieve policy impact and making a real-world difference. You will do this by contributing to APLN’s research, network, and events agenda and enhancing the APLN’s visibility, reach and impact.

Job Description and Applicant Requirements

Job title:  Senior Research Adviser

Recruiter:  Asia Pacific Leadership Network (APLN) 

Closing date: Friday 29th April 2022

Salary range: Competitive, depending on skills and experience

Preferred start date: 1st June 2022

Location: Remote working 

Duration: Full-time preferred but open to part-time working depending on the candidate’s needs. 1-year contract with a strong likelihood of extension, subject to review.

Main Duties

• Writing and publishing policy briefs, reports, and op-eds on policy-relevant topics to a high publishable standard in English.
• Conducting research and analysis as part of APLN’s core agenda and research projects.
• Designing and implementing new research projects.
• Providing research advice and support to APLN staff.
• Supporting APLN’s publication process by reviewing, proofreading, and editing papers and commentaries.
• Maintaining a personal publication and media profile by publishing in other research and media outlets.
• Managing the commissioning process and publication schedule with the communications officer and senior staff.
• Designing policy interventions ensuring that APLN’s research and commissioning is as sharply focused and timely as possible.
• Representing the APLN at conferences and meetings.
• Cultivating and maintaining relationships with possible funding bodies and individuals and contributing to the drafting of funding proposals and reports.
• Briefing journalists on issues related to the APLN agenda.
• Monitoring international news and events relevant to the organisation activities and mission.

Applicant Requirements

Essential 

• Strong knowledge or expertise relating to China and defence and security issues in the Asia Pacific.
• University graduate degree in A relevant subject.
• Demonstrated expertise on nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament policy debates.
• Proven ability in network-building.
• A strong track record of publishing on international security issues.
• Experience in public speaking on relevant issues.
• Fluency in oral and written English.
• Well-organized and able to multi-task, with a keen eye for detail.
• Experience of working to tight deadlines and under pressure.
• Experience working in a team.
• Reside in the Asia-Pacific region (not more than a 5-hour time difference with Seoul).
• A willingness to work to a flexible timetable, which could include occasional commitments in the evening or early morning.
• A willingness to travel overseas.  

Highly Desirable 

• Previous governmental, NGO, or think tank experience.
• A strong academic network, including in China.
• Experience running research projects on nuclear policy issues.
• Team leadership experience.
• Experience in organising events.
• Fluency in a major Asian language.

How to Apply

• To apply, please email your CV and a cover letter detailing how you meet the selection criteria (with Senior Research Adviser in the subject line) to Yoonsoo Kim, APLN Operations Manager, at kimys@apln.network. Your CV should clearly outline your relevant experience.
• Please indicate your notice period if you are currently employed, and the city where you will be located if hired.
• Any inquiries regarding the application process, contact Yoonsoo Kim at kimys@apln.network.