Events & Updates

We Are Hiring | Research Analyst

December 12, 2025

Arab Barometer – Washington, DC (Remote Option Available)

Position Summary

The Research Analyst provides essential technical and analytical support to the Arab Barometer’s research team in implementing cross-national public opinion surveys across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). This position plays a key role in ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and clarity of Arab Barometer data through careful data cleaning, verification, fact checking, assistance with survey programming, questionnaire development, and background research.

Working closely with the research staff, the Research Analyst contributes to multiple stages of the research process—from questionnaire preparation and pilot testing to data processing, analysis, and dissemination. The role supports Arab Barometer’s commitment to methodological rigor, transparency, and high-quality public opinion data.

This position is ideal for an early-career researcher with strong quantitative skills, excellent attention to detail, and an interest in public opinion, governance, and social trends in the MENA region.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Survey Preparation and Programming Support

  • Assist in programming survey questionnaires using professional platforms (e.g., SurveyCTO or ODK).
  • Conduct systematic testing to ensure accurate skip logic, translations, and question flow.
  • Support coordination between research and programming teams to implement last-minute instrument updates and troubleshoot technical issues.

Questionnaire Development and Background Research

  • Conduct background research and literature reviews to support questionnaire design and refinement.
  • Assist senior researchers in drafting, revising, and organizing survey questions to ensure conceptual clarity and cross-national comparability.
  • Gather contextual information on political, economic, and social trends in MENA countries to inform survey content.
  • Prepare briefs, summaries, and research notes that guide instrument development.
  • Review translated questionnaires to ensure conceptual and linguistic consistency across languages.

Data Quality Assurance and Verification

  • Conduct data cleaning, verification, and consistency checks using statistical software (Stata, R, or Python).
  • Perform number checking and fact checking across datasets, tables, and publications to ensure complete accuracy.
  • Review and cross-verify translated questionnaires and reports for linguistic and conceptual consistency.

Data Analysis and Reporting

  • Support descriptive and inferential analyses under the supervision of senior researchers.
  • Prepare summary tables, charts, and visualizations for reports, presentations, and media use.
  • Contribute to internal and external reports by compiling data, documenting methods, and ensuring factual accuracy.

Documentation and Research Support

  • Assist in maintaining data documentation, codebooks, and metadata across survey waves.
  • Support preparation of technical memos and methodological reports.
  • Track and update internal databases to ensure all materials are organized and version-controlled.

Collaboration and Capacity Building

  • Coordinate with regional fieldwork partners to support timely data delivery and quality control.
  • Participate in internal team meetings and contribute to project timelines and deliverables.
  • Stay informed about regional political and social developments to contextualize survey findings.

Knowledge and Skill Requirements

  • Strong attention to detail, especially regarding numerical and factual verification.
  • Proficiency in at least one statistical package (Stata, R, or Python) required.
  • Familiarity with survey platforms (SurveyCTO or ODK) preferred.
  • Strong analytical and organizational skills with the ability to meet deadlines across multiple projects.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Interest in public opinion, governance, or social and political issues in the MENA region.
  • Ability to work collaboratively within a multicultural and remote work environment.

Education, Training, and Experience

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Political Science, Sociology, Statistics, Data Science, Economics, or a related field.
  • 1–3 years of experience in research, data analysis, or survey work (relevant academic or internship experience considered).
  • Fluency in English required; working proficiency in Arabic strongly preferred.

Reporting

Reports to the Director of Research and the Senior Programmer.

Location

Washington, DC, with the possibility of remote work.

Submission Details

  • Deadline: January 4, 2026 at 11:59pm EST
  • Submit to: arabbarometer@gmail.com
  • Format: Single PDF labeled LastName_FirstName_Research Analyst
  •  Include:
    • Statement of Interest
    • CV or Resume

Arab Barometer is an Equal Opportunity organization and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.