Research Assistant, Food, Peace and Security

SIPRI’s Peace and Development Cluster is hiring a Research Assistant to join the Food, Peace and Security Programme.

Context

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) is a globally respected, independent institute dedicated to research on conflict, arms control, security, peace, and development. Since its founding in 1966, SIPRI has provided policymakers, researchers, and the public with reliable data, in-depth analysis, and informed recommendations. With a collaborative and international environment, SIPRI offers an intellectually stimulating workplace that values diversity, inclusion, and professional growth.

The programme

SIPRI’s Food, Peace and Security Programme studies the intersection between food security, conflict dynamics and peacebuilding processes. Researchers in the Programme explore this intersection from a variety of perspectives—including gender and climate change—and examine the role of humanitarian, development and peacebuilding actors and donors in breaking vicious cycles between food security and violent conflict. One key area of work is the Sahel Resilience Partnership—a multi-year collaboration between WFP, UNICEF, and GIZ—where SIPRI serves as the research partner. The primary purpose of this position is to support SIPRI’s engagement with and research on the SRP, contributing to publications that inform efforts to build sustainable peace and resilience in one of the world’s most challenging regions.

The Role

We are seeking a Research Assistant to contribute to the research conducted by the Food, Peace and Security Programme. The position is especially focused on supporting the research on social cohesion building efforts by, and coordination with, the Sahel Resilience Partners. This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of an engaged research team working at the intersection of policy and practice in peace and development.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct structured literature reviews and analyze project-related documentation;
• Support the design, implementation, and analysis of interviews;
• Assist in preparing research reports and internal progress updates;
• Coordinate and help facilitate meetings with project partners;
• Support the planning and execution of fieldwork activities;
• Contribute to the overall coordination and administrative support of the project;
• Assist in the development and dissemination of high-quality research outputs.

Requirements

We are seeking a highly motivated and dedicated individual with a strong interest in pursuing a future research career—whether through advanced academic study, such as a PhD, or engagement in applied policy research. The ideal candidate will combine a solid academic background with relevant experience and a strong commitment to issues related to peace, development and food security in fragile contexts.

Candidates should meet the following criteria:

• A university degree—preferably at master's level or beyond—in a relevant field such as peace and conflict studies, development, humanitarian action, food security, political science or international relations; or equivalent professional experience in these areas;
• At least one year of professional experience, ideally in a similar research or project support role;
• Sound knowledge of international relations and humanitarian work in fragile and conflict-affected settings;
• Fluency in English and French, with strong written and verbal communication skills in both languages;
• High attention to detail and accuracy in research and documentation tasks;
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently;
• A collaborative and proactive mindset, with a commitment to contributing to a positive team environment.

Contract period

The contract period is initially one year with the possibility of an extension. The post is full-time. The post requires residency in Stockholm, Sweden, when employment starts. The salary package will be negotiated on an individual basis.

How to apply

Interested candidates should submit:

• A one-page cover letter in English detailing their qualifications and specifying why they are applying for this position;
• A CV in English including degrees, work experience, language skills and contact details for two referees.

Please access the application form via the ‘apply’ button at the end of this page.

The closing date for applications is 31 July 2025.

Interviews are expected to take place in August.

For enquiries regarding the position, please contact: Dr Caroline Delgado, Senior Researcher and Director of the Food, Peace and Security Programme.

SIPRI is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture.

The trade union contacts at SIPRI are Pieter Wezemanfor ST and Kheira Tarif for Saco-S.