Application Guide

How to Apply for Research Trainee Observatory Russia, Caucasus and Central Asia

at Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)

🏢 About Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)

The Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI) is Italy's leading think tank on international affairs, known for its rigorous, non-partisan research and influential policy recommendations. Working at ISPI offers the opportunity to contribute to high-impact geopolitical analysis that informs European policymakers and academic discourse on Russia, the Caucasus, and Central Asia.

About This Role

As a Research Trainee focusing on Russia, the Caucasus, and Central Asia, you'll conduct in-depth analysis of regional political, economic, and security developments under expert supervision. This role is impactful because it contributes directly to ISPI's influential publications and policy briefs that shape European understanding of these strategically important regions.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day involves monitoring regional news sources in Russian and local languages, analyzing policy developments for weekly briefings, contributing to collaborative research papers on Eurasian security issues, and participating in virtual meetings with ISPI's Europe-based research team. You'll spend significant time synthesizing complex regional information into accessible analysis for policymakers and the public.

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🎯 Who Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI) Is Looking For

  • Advanced degree candidate or recent graduate in International Relations, Political Science, or Eurasian Studies with demonstrated coursework/research on Russia, Caucasus, or Central Asia
  • Proficiency in Russian and/or relevant regional languages (Turkish, Persian, Kazakh, etc.) with ability to analyze primary sources
  • Strong analytical writing skills with experience producing policy briefs or academic papers on geopolitical topics
  • Familiarity with current regional dynamics including Russia's foreign policy, post-Soviet state relations, and security issues in the Caucasus

📝 Tips for Applying to Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)

1

Highlight specific coursework or research projects focused on Russia's foreign policy or Central Asian geopolitics in your CV

2

Include writing samples that demonstrate your ability to analyze regional developments for a policy audience, not just academic papers

3

Mention any language skills beyond English, particularly Russian or regional languages, with specific examples of how you've used them in research

4

Reference specific ISPI publications or research programs on Eurasia to show you've studied their work approach

5

Emphasize your ability to work independently in a remote setting while contributing to collaborative research projects

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific analytical approach to studying Russia-Caucasus-Central Asia relations with concrete examples', "How your research interests align with ISPI's current Eurasia program focus areas", 'Experience working with primary sources in regional languages or conducting policy-relevant analysis', 'Your understanding of how think tank research differs from academic research and your adaptability to that format']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review ISPI's recent publications on Russia and Eurasia to understand their analytical framework and policy focus
  • → Study the backgrounds of ISPI's senior researchers working on Russia/Central Asia to identify potential mentors
  • → Examine ISPI's partnership network with other European think tanks and how they collaborate on regional research
  • → Understand Italy's specific foreign policy interests in the Caucasus and Central Asia regions

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Your analysis of a current geopolitical development in the Caucasus region and its implications for European policy
2 How you would approach researching Russia's economic influence in Central Asian countries
3 Your experience working with datasets or primary sources in Russian or regional languages
4 How you stay current on developments across this vast region and prioritize research topics
5 Your understanding of ISPI's role in the European think tank ecosystem and how this position contributes
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Generic statements about 'interest in international relations' without specific focus on the Russia-Caucasus-Central Asia region
  • Submitting purely academic writing samples without demonstrating ability to write for policy audiences
  • Failing to mention relevant language skills or regional expertise in application materials

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)!

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