Royal United Services Institute (RUSI)
Listed on Orbital Diplomat 7 Aug 2026
The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) is the UK's leading independent defence and security think tank, with offices in London, Brussels, and Nairobi. Its Military Sciences Research Group conducts cutting-edge research on military technology, defence policy, and contemporary conflict, drawing on in-house expertise across the air, land, maritime, cyber, and space domains. This Research Analyst position specialises in military technology with a particular focus on ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) and Space — two domains at the heart of current NATO capability debates, European defence investment priorities, and the evolving character of warfare. The postholder will support funded research projects on military communications, surveillance architectures, and space-enabled military capabilities; attend high-level meetings and research visits to build subject matter expertise; produce sole-authored and co-authored analysis for RUSI Commentary, RUSI Defence Systems, and the RUSI Journal; and support the C4ISR Research Fellow on the annual RUSI Military Technology Conference. For early-career professionals with backgrounds in space technology, satellite systems, military communications, or defence policy, this is an exceptional entry point into one of the world's most prestigious security think tanks — with direct access to senior military, government, and industry stakeholders across the UK and allied nations. The 18-month fixed-term contract is intended for renewal. Early application is strongly encouraged as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject Passion for military issues and practical or research experience related to technology relevant to military functions — including satellites, uncrewed vehicles, aircraft, radar, or digital communications Strong analytical skills with ability to present complex technical and policy material clearly in writing and orally Good communication and interpersonal skills across a wide range of stakeholders Good organisational and planning skills Desirable: postgraduate degree in a relevant subject Desirable: experience working with militaries on defence matters in government, academia, industry, or a think tank Desirable: familiarity with communications, computing, or satellite systems Desirable: published record or publicly accessible analytical writing Desirable: experience organising seminars or workshops