Description

About the Rafik Hariri Center and Middle East Programs

The Atlantic Council’s Rafik Hariri Center and Middle East Programs seek to produce original analysis of the forces transforming the region and policy recommendations for the United States and Europe about how to promote closer and more productive relations with the region. The Hariri Center recognizes the substantial linkages between political and economic affairs and will develop policy initiatives to promote successful democratic transitions and greater convergence among the Middle East, the United States, and Europe. The Center is dedicated to the memory of the late Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri and his efforts to rise above sectarianism and to promote innovative policies to support economic and political liberalization, sustainable conflict resolution, and greater regional and international integration.

 

Overview of the Role

The Atlantic Council’s Middle East Programs seeks an experienced, creative, and motivated leader to serve as the Center’s Resident Senior Fellow for the Project on Middle East Integration. The Project will sit under the Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative (SMESI), led by Senior Director Jonathan Panikoff. In this critical role, you will shape the Project’s research agenda, recruit and manage Nonresident Senior Fellows, and oversee the Project’s programming and engagements. You will also work closely with SMESI and Center leadership on the design and drafting of partnership and funding proposals, lead outreach to peers and collaborators, and represent the Project with government officials, international organizations, donors, and the media to advance the Project’s impact and visibility. Additionally, you will oversee daily operations, lead recruitment and staffing as appropriate, and manage the Project’s budget.

Additionally, this person will serve as the lead on Middle East Programs’ engagement on the Europe Gulf Forum, reporting to MEP’s Senior Director, Will Wechsler, and working closely with the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center and Executive Office teams.

This position is based in Washington, DC, requiring a minimum of 4 days per week in office. The Atlantic Council offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and education, with offers from $150,000 to $160,000. Applications submitted by October 30, 2026, will be prioritized for consideration.

 

Job Responsibilities

The Resident Senior Fellow, Project on Middle East Integration will be specifically responsible for:

• Intellectual Leadership. Lead the development of the Project’s research and programming agenda, shaping its intellectual framework and advancing its work in alignment with the Atlantic Council’s mission and regional programming. Represent the Project through speaking engagements, conferences, and other platforms, maintaining a respected profile in the policy and academic communities.
• Development. Work closely with Council leadership and the Office of External Relations to sustain and expand the institute’s funding base. Secure financial support from a diverse range of sources, including corporations, government agencies, international organizations, foundations, and individuals, ensuring the long-term sustainability of research activities.
• Outreach/Communications. Serve as the primary external representative of the Project on Middle East Integration, engaging with government officials, legislators, diplomatic representatives, donors, media, and academic institutions. Promote the institute’s work through public and private events, international conferences, and strategic media engagement, enhancing its visibility and impact.
• Europe-Gulf Forum. Serve as the substantive expert and thought leadership resource for issues related to Europe-Gulf policy and diplomacy. Support the execution of multiple events throughout the year, including the annual Forum held in the spring, and provide substantive input, including through written work, for the Europe Gulf Alert newsletter. This position will be responsible for liaising with Gulf invitees and serving as the point of contact for their teams to facilitate productive engagement in the Forum and related events.

Qualifications

• The candidate should have extensive background in Middle East studies, political science, international relations, or a related field.
• Ten or more years of experience in related US government, non-governmental organizations, or think tank positions relevant to regional integration.
• Proven track record of success in managing and leading policy and research teams.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and decision-making skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of the regional political landscape, especially as it relates to regional integration.
• Excellent research and writing skills in English in both long (e.g., report-length) and short (e.g., newspaper article) formats.
• Able to work independently on project outputs.
• Professional experience interacting with civil society groups and government officials.
• Must have strong project management and personnel administration skills, and experience managing multiple complex projects.

 

To produce quality work and to successfully achieve our mission, we recognize the need for our staff to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a work/life balance. Our comprehensive benefits package helps to keep costs low for our staff and their families. Benefits include, but are not limited to comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance, paid time off, 403(b) plan, FSA options, pet insurance, Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility, and wellness benefits.