Research Assistant (RA) for Strategic Engagements

Job title: Research Assistant (RA) for Strategic Engagements

About the Role The Research Assistant (RA) for Strategic Engagements is a paid, full-time role focused on the programming and operational side of SCSP’s flagship event, the AI+ Expo. You’ll help with speaker curation, creative design, and coordination with external partners to ensure a seamless event experience. This role offers exposure to how national security priorities intersect with private-sector dialogue and public-facing events.

What You'll Do

• Assist in curating speaker lists, panel topics, and tech demonstrations aligned with SCSP’s mission.
• Help draft compelling session descriptions and event agendas.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for speaker invitations, collect bios/headshots, and coordinate VIP guests.
• Draft and edit external communications, including attendee invitations, event newsletters, promotional copy, social media content, and briefing materials for speakers/moderators.
• Use project management tools to track speaker logistics, programming details, and day-of show agendas.
• Provide hands-on, on-site support during the Expo, including stage management and attendee experience.

What We're Looking For

• All undergraduate or graduate majors are encouraged to apply.
• Technical savvy with high proficiency in project management software; ability to leverage and prompt Large Language Models.
• Exceptional professional writing and communication skills for external partner engagement.
• In-person requirement: able to work full-time in-person at the Arlington office January through June 2027.
• Experience in fast-paced office environments with strict deadlines; collaborative mindset and willingness to support the team in varied capacities.
• Self-starter mentality with the ability to bring fresh ideas to current processes.
• Interest in the intersection of American competitiveness and emerging technology.

Nice to Have

• Experience working in a fast-paced office environment with strict deadlines.
• Collaborative mindset and willingness to support the team in varied, fluctuating capacities.
• Self-starter, bringing fresh ideas to current processes.
• Interest in the intersection of American competitiveness and emerging technology.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $22 - $26 per year (non-exempt)
• Location: Arlington, VA
• This is a full-time, in-person position with no explicit visa sponsorship noted.