China Analyst or Senior Analyst

- ASPI is looking for an experienced, high-performing China analyst or senior analyst with strong strategic judgement, leadership and policy experience

- ASPI is one of the Indo-Pacific’s most influential think tanks, with globally renowned initiatives such as the China Defence University Tracker

- Join a progressive organisation with a vibrant organisational culture

About ASPI

ASPI is an independent, non-partisan think tank that produces expert and timely advice for political, strategic and security leaders in Australia and the Indo-Pacific region. In uncertain times, ASPI is an authoritative voice offering contestable and informed policy advice to government, media and the private sector on matters relating to Australia’s defence and national security.

About the role

ASPI has an exciting opportunity for an analyst or senior analyst to examine the impact of China’s rise on Australian and regional interests. The role will focus primarily on China’s foreign and security policy, defence and military affairs, Australia–China relations and China’s impact on the Indo-Pacific, including Taiwan, Southeast Asia, the Pacific and alliance networks.

We are particularly interested in candidates who combine strong strategic judgement with the ability to lead people, set research priorities and build relationships across government, industry, civil society and the funding community. The successful candidate should be comfortable identifying important gaps in ASPI’s strategic and policy coverage of China, developing a program of work around them and creating opportunities for other researchers to pursue strong ideas.

At senior analyst level, the role would involve leading a small team of researchers and analysts, setting priorities, providing editorial and analytical guidance, cultivating external relationships and helping develop fundable research projects. The successful candidate would be expected to give high-performing researchers appropriate autonomy while providing closer guidance where needed. They would also contribute their own analysis and public commentary as appropriate.

At analyst level, the role would involve original research,



project coordination and stakeholder engagement, working closely with senior staff across several projects.

We are looking for a team member with deep experience, sound judgement and an entrepreneurial approach who can deliver complex projects in a collaborative environment. A solid understanding of the Australian national-security and policy landscape—and established networks across government and the wider policy community—would be particularly valuable.

Specialist knowledge in one or more areas of China research is highly desirable, particularly Chinese foreign and security policy, the PLA and military affairs, Taiwan and cross-Strait issues, economic security, information operations, political influence and interference, state security and/or human rights.

Chinese language proficiency, experience working with original Chinese-language sources and specialised open-source or data-collection skills would be an advantage, but are not essential for an otherwise outstanding candidate with strong leadership, policy and strategic credentials. A track record of published research or policy work, including experience in government, Defence, DFAT or a comparable institution, would also be viewed favourably.

The successful candidate will have:

- demonstrated ability to lead, develop and get the best out of researchers, including exercising sound editorial and analytical judgement and encouraging rigorous, contestable analysis;

- strong knowledge of China and the strategic and security issues arising from its role in Australia and the Indo-Pacific;

- the ability to set priorities, identify gaps and develop a coherent program of policy-relevant research;

- strong networks and stakeholder-management skills, particularly in the Australian government and national-security policy community;

- the ability to identify,



cultivate and develop funding opportunities and partnerships for research, and to help translate researchers’ ideas into fundable projects;

- superior analytical, writing and editing skills;

- experience briefing policymakers, industry partners and other senior stakeholders, with the ability to engage effectively with media where required;

- demonstrated ability to deliver complex projects with limited direction and manage multiple priorities; and

- appropriate tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline and the ability to work collaboratively in diverse research teams.

Benefits

- Competitive salary and superannuation contribution.

- Privileged exposure to events in Australia and overseas, with thought leaders from across the globe discussing big issues.

- Potential for attendance at in-house training sessions and professional development courses on defence and security topics.

- Eligible employees get 14 weeks maternity leave at full pay and four weeks parental leave at full pay.

Remuneration

The successful candidate will be offered a remuneration package at a level aligned with their demonstrated skills and expertise. ASPI promotes a workplace that actively values unique contributions of all people. The institute strongly encourages people from diverse cultural backgrounds including applicants from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds to apply.

How to Apply

1. Submit applications to ****@aspi.org.au, with the following documents: 

- A cover note of no more than 800 words, linking your motivation, skills and experience to the position’s responsibilities, essential criteria and qualifications;

- A resume/CV, including two referee contact details.

The closing date for applications is 5pm Friday 2 October—an early application before the closing date is advised as ASPI reserves the right to close the vacancy early if suitable applications are received. The job inbox will be closely monitored throughout this period for any potential suitable candidates.

For further information about this position contact ASPI on (02) 6270 5*** or visit www.aspi.org.au.

📌 China Analyst or Senior Analyst (Barton)
🏢 Australian Strategic Policy Institute
📍 Barton