Philip Taubman at the at the Center for International Security and Cooperation (CISAC) is looking for a research assistant with exceptionally strong research, analytic, and writing skills to work on a book about Robert McNamara. The research assistant will work directly with Mr. Taubman on a daily basis to conduct research, draft reports, and assist with a range of research and administrative needs. Candidates should have a familiarity with 20th century American and world diplomatic military history, in particular the history of the Kennedy and Johnson administrations, and knowledge of international and military affairs, specifically Cold War history and the Vietnam War. Candidates should be familiar with global development issues and the role of the World Bank.

Project background: Robert McNamara served as secretary of defense in the Kennedy and Johnson administration and played a pivotal role in the prosecution of the Vietnam War. He later served as president of the World Bank.

This is a 100% FTE fixed-term, benefits-eligible position. The term concludes two years from the start date, and may be extended based on program need and funding availability.

For consideration, please provide resume and cover letter. Background check required for all final candidates.

The ideal start date is August 2020.

In this role, you will:

• Plan and perform research tasks requiring initiative and judgment by applying basic knowledge and understanding of scientific theory when precedents do not provide specific guidance. General instruction provided by the supervisor as needed. May interpret study results in collaboration with supervisor or PI.
• Participate in the development and administration of survey instruments and rating scales requiring judgment in applying non-routine procedures. Analyze and summarize results for review with supervisor. Audit the accuracy and validity of data
• Review and audit case report forms for completion and accuracy with source documents, and ensure compliance with research protocols.
• Identify, select, extract and summarize data and structured information. Present summary of findings to supervisor.
• Conduct literature searches, and write literature summaries and manuscripts, requiring preliminary judgments after the supervisor outlines conceptual approach.
• Build and organize data as requested by principal investigator or supervisor; use common statistical programs requiring the application of job control language in generating and organizing data.
• Adapt new, nonstandard methods outlined by supervisor in designing and evaluating phases of research projects, (i.e., educational materials, questionnaires, strategies for recruitment, data quality control procedures and processes). May follow up with Institutional Review Board (IRB) to ensure renewals are approved and completed, seeking guidance where necessary.
• Assist with development, communication and design of research findings to internal and external audiences, which may include web updates, social media, and/or white papers, for use in recruitment, educational, or awareness of programs, with guidance from supervisor.
• May orient and train new staff or students.

In addition, you will:

• Review archival materials at the National Archives, the John F. Kennedy Library, the Lyndon Johnson Library, the World Bank, the Hoover Institution and other collections. Includes preparing and tracking requests to seek the declassification of government documents and records.
• Organize and maintain large data sets which will serve as the basis for endnotes and fact-checking during the editing phase of the projects.
• Prepare research reports.
• Conduct interviews of individuals, with faculty and individually.
• Assist in managing a very busy calendar, arranging complex domestic and international travel, preparing expense reports for various research expenses and drafting and sending correspondence.

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• Bachelor of Arts degree in an applicable social science related field, or combination of education and relevant experience in an applicable social science.
• General understanding of scientific theory and methods, typically gained through completion of an undergraduate degree in a related field.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to complete detailed work accurately.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work with human study participants.

In addition, preferred requirements include:
Knowledge of 20th century American and world diplomatic and economic history strongly preferred.
 
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 Note: The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Additional Information

• Schedule: Full-time
• Job Code: 4189
• Employee Status: Fixed-Term
• Grade: E
• Requisition ID: 85636