Who Can Apply?

Applicants from diverse academic disciplines are encouraged to apply, including International Relations, Political Science, Strategic Studies, Defence and Security Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, Diplomacy, Public Policy, History, Economics, Law, Sociology, Area Studies, Education, as well as Applied Sciences, Natural Sciences, Computer Sciences, and other relevant disciplines.

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Research & Academic Opportunities at PAIR

Find the Research Pathway That Matches Your Academic Journey

The Pakistan Academy of International Relations (PAIR) welcomes students, researchers, academics, and young professionals who are interested in contributing to research, policy analysis, international affairs, strategic studies, peace and conflict studies, and related fields.

PAIR offers four research-oriented positions designed to accommodate applicants at different stages of their academic and professional development. Applicants are encouraged to select the position that corresponds to their highest completed academic qualification and level of research experience.

Our positions provide opportunities to engage with research projects, policy analysis, academic writing, publications, seminars, conferences, knowledge production, and other activities related to international relations and strategic affairs.

1. Senior Research Fellow

For PhD Scholars, Researchers & Academics

Who should apply?


The Senior Research Fellow position is intended for applicants who have completed a PhD and possess an interest or experience in advanced research, academic scholarship, policy analysis, or strategic studies.

 

This position is particularly suitable for researchers and academics who wish to contribute to high-level research projects, develop scholarly publications, provide expert analysis, and participate in PAIR’s intellectual and policy-oriented initiatives.

 

Typical areas of engagement may include:

  • Advanced research and policy analysis

  • Scholarly publications and research papers

  • Strategic and international affairs analysis

  • Research project leadership or collaboration

  • Academic and policy conferences

  • Policy briefs and analytical reports

  • Mentoring and research guidance

  • Development of new research themes and initiatives

Ideal for:
PhD holders, experienced researchers, academics, and subject-matter specialists.

2. Research Fellow

For MS/MPhil Scholars & Researchers

Who should apply?


The Research Fellow position is designed for applicants who have completed an MS/MPhil degree and wish to further develop their research, analytical, academic writing, and policy research capabilities.

Research Fellows may work independently or as part of a research team and can contribute to ongoing PAIR projects, publications, policy studies, and academic initiatives.


Typical areas of engagement may include:

  • Literature reviews and academic research

  • Qualitative and quantitative research

  • Policy and strategic analysis

  • Research papers and policy briefs

  • Data collection and analysis

  • Conference and seminar support

  • Academic publications

  • Collaborative research projects

Ideal for:
MS/MPhil graduates, early-career researchers, and postgraduate scholars seeking to strengthen their research profile.

3. Research Officer

For BS/MA Graduates & Early-Career Professionals

Who should apply?


The Research Officer position is intended for applicants who have completed a BS or MA degree and are interested in developing professional experience in research, analysis, policy studies, international affairs, and related disciplines.

 

Research Officers support PAIR’s research and knowledge-production activities and may work closely with senior researchers and research fellows.

 

Typical areas of engagement may include:

  • Background research and literature review

  • Information and data collection

  • Research assistance and documentation

  • Monitoring international and regional developments

  • Preparation of research notes and briefs

  • Support for seminars, conferences, and workshops

  • Content development and knowledge dissemination

  • Assistance in ongoing research projects

Ideal for:
BS/MA graduates, fresh graduates, and early-career professionals seeking practical research experience.

4. Research Assistant

For Students Currently Enrolled in a Bachelor’s Degree

Who should apply?


The Research Assistant position is designed for students who are currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree programme and wish to gain practical exposure to research, international affairs, strategic studies, and academic and policy work.


This opportunity allows undergraduate students to complement their academic studies with practical research experience and develop skills that can support their future academic and professional careers.


Typical areas of engagement may include:

  • Basic research and information gathering

  • Literature and source identification

  • Data collection and organization

  • Monitoring current affairs and international developments

  • Preparation of research materials

  • Support for seminars and conferences

  • Academic and research documentation

  • Assistance to PAIR research teams

Ideal for:
Undergraduate students who are curious, motivated, research-oriented, and interested in international relations, strategic studies, peace and conflict, diplomacy, foreign policy, and related fields.

Who Are We Looking For?

PAIR seeks individuals who demonstrate:

 

  • Intellectual curiosity and a passion for learning

  • Strong interest in international affairs and contemporary global issues

  • Research aptitude and analytical thinking

  • Academic and professional integrity

  • Good written and verbal communication skills

  • Commitment to evidence-based analysis

  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively

  • Willingness to learn and contribute

  • Professionalism, responsibility, and dedication

Applicants from diverse academic disciplines are encouraged to apply, including International Relations, Political Science, Strategic Studies, Defence and Security Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, Diplomacy, Public Policy, History, Economics, Law, Sociology, Area Studies, Education, as well as Applied Sciences, Natural Sciences, Computer Sciences, and other relevant disciplines.

 

At PAIR, we believe that knowledge is not merely acquired—it is developed, challenged, shared, and applied.

 

Whether you are an undergraduate taking your first steps into research, a graduate developing your analytical skills, an emerging researcher building your scholarly profile, or a PhD scholar contributing advanced knowledge, PAIR offers a platform to learn, research, engage, and contribute.

 

Choose the position that matches your academic journey and become part of a community committed to advancing knowledge in international relations and strategic affairs.