Migration Policy Institute (MPI) Research Assistant Job 2026 in Washington DC: Apply for Immigration Policy Research Opportunity @Unknown

The Migration Policy Institute (MPI) is inviting applications for a Research Assistant position within its U.S. Immigration Policy Program in Washington, DC.

This opportunity is ideal for early-career researchers, policy analysts, and professionals passionate about migration, immigration systems, public policy, and evidence-based research. The successful candidate will join a dynamic and collaborative team working on some of the most important immigration policy issues affecting the United States.

Applications are currently open, with a deadline of 24 August 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

About the Migration Policy Institute

The Migration Policy Institute is an independent, nonpartisan think tank dedicated to improving immigration and integration policies through authoritative research, policy analysis, learning opportunities, dialogue, and the development of innovative ideas addressing complex migration challenges.

MPI works to provide policymakers, researchers, and the public with reliable evidence and analysis on immigration trends, migration systems, refugee protection, border management, labour markets, and immigrant integration.

The organisation is committed to building an inclusive workplace that values diverse experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds while supporting research that advances informed immigration policy decisions.

About the U.S. Immigration Policy Program

The Research Assistant will join MPI’s U.S. Immigration Policy Program, which conducts research and analysis on immigration policies shaping migration to the United States.

The programme covers a wide range of policy areas, including:

• Legal immigration pathways
• Visa systems
• Refugee resettlement
• Asylum policies
• Border management
• Immigration enforcement
• Immigration governance
• Demographic research on immigrant populations

Through research publications, policy briefings, events, and stakeholder engagement, the programme contributes to discussions among policymakers, researchers, and immigration experts.

Key Responsibilities

The Research Assistant will support MPI’s mission through research, policy analysis, writing, and programme activities.

Responsibilities include:

Policy Research and Analysis

The successful candidate will:

• Monitor and analyse immigration policy developments
• Track congressional actions, regulatory changes, executive actions, and court decisions
• Prepare summaries for internal and external audiences
• Conduct literature reviews and gather research data
• Analyse quantitative and qualitative information
• Produce verified figures, tables, and research materials
• Support the development of MPI reports and publications

Writing and Research Support

The Research Assistant will contribute to:

• Drafting research summaries and policy documents
• Preparing written materials under guidance from senior researchers
• Supporting evidence-based analysis on immigration issues
• Writing research memoranda and project materials

Programme and Event Support

The role also includes assisting with:

• Public events
• Private roundtables
• Webinars
• Research briefings
• Project meetings
• Research interviews
• Programme administration tasks

The successful candidate may also support intern coordination, project management, and fundraising activities, including research for grant proposals and reports.

Required Qualifications and Skills

Applicants should demonstrate strong research abilities, analytical skills, and an interest in immigration policy.

Required qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree with at least one year of professional experience
  (Candidates without a degree but with significant relevant experience may also be considered.)
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Excellent English writing ability
• Knowledge of key U.S. immigration policy topics
• Experience supporting quantitative or qualitative research
• Ability to analyse laws, regulations, policy guidance, and court decisions
• Strong attention to accuracy and evidence-based reporting
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Applicants should have knowledge of at least some of the following areas:

• Visa pathways
• Immigration enforcement
• Border policy
• Refugee resettlement
• Asylum systems

Preferred Skills

Additional skills that will strengthen applications include:

• Foreign language proficiency
• Experience with statistical analysis
• Advanced Excel skills
• Knowledge of Stata or related research software
• Familiarity with immigration law
• Experience in migration policy research

Salary and Benefits

The Research Assistant position offers a competitive salary and benefits package.

Salary range:

$52,000 – $67,000 per year

Compensation will depend on the candidate’s skills, experience, and qualifications.

Benefits include:

• Health benefits
• Retirement benefits
• Professional development opportunities
• Opportunity to work within a leading migration policy research institution

The position is based at MPI’s office in:

Washington, DC, USA

Employees are expected to work from the office at least three days per week.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is suitable for:

• Early-career researchers
• Public policy graduates
• Migration studies professionals
• International relations graduates
• Social science researchers
• Immigration policy analysts
• Individuals interested in evidence-based policymaking

Candidates passionate about migration issues and research-driven policy solutions are encouraged to apply.

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

• Cover letter
• Resume/CV
• Unedited sole-authored writing sample

Application documents should be labelled with the applicant’s last name.

Applications should be submitted via email to:

hr@migrationpolicy.org

Applicants should use the subject line:

Research Assistant, U.S. Program

Candidates should also include information explaining how they learned about the position.

Application Deadline

Deadline: 24 August 2026

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submissions are encouraged.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Why Join the Migration Policy Institute?

Working at MPI provides an opportunity to contribute to research that influences public understanding and policy debates on immigration.

The Research Assistant role offers valuable experience in policy analysis, research communication, and migration studies while working alongside experts in one of the most important policy fields globally.

For young professionals seeking to build careers in research, public policy, and international development, this position provides an excellent pathway to gain practical experience and contribute to meaningful evidence-based solutions.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organisation offering this job. For questions regarding eligibility, job requirements, or the application process, applicants should contact MPI directly through the official application platform above.

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