🌐 Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad Jobs 2026 — Research Associate (BPS‑17) | Regular Position | Master's/16 Years Education | 2 Years Research Experience & Publications | Age Max 35 | Deadline: 22 July 2026.
⏰ Calculating...
Application Deadline: 22 July 2026 | Apply Online at njp.gov.pk
🌐 ISSI Research Associate (BPS‑17) Job 2026 — Islamabad
The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), a premier government think-tank, is seeking a qualified and research-oriented professional for the position of Research Associate. This is a regular (permanent) BPS‑17 position, offering a stable career in strategic and policy research. The role requires a Master's degree or equivalent (16 years of education) in disciplines such as International Relations, Political Science, Defence & Strategic Studies, Peace & Conflict Studies, or comparable fields, with a particular focus on India/South Asia preferred. The candidate must also have at least two years of research experience at a reputable university or institution and two research publications in HEC‑recognized journals. The maximum age limit is 35 years, with federal age relaxation rules applied. Applications must be submitted online via the National Job Portal by 22 July 2026.
📊 Job Overview — Research Associate (BPS‑17)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) |
| Position | Research Associate |
| Scale | BPS‑17 |
| Job Type | Regular (Permanent) |
| Location | Islamabad |
| Education | Master's or equivalent/16 years in IR, Political Science, DSS, Peace & Conflict Studies, Defence & Diplomatic Studies, or comparable discipline |
| Experience | Minimum 2 years research experience + 2 publications in HEC recognized journals |
| Age Limit | Maximum 35 years (Federal Age Relaxation Rules applied) |
| Last Date | 22 July 2026 |
| Apply Online | https://njp.gov.pk/jobs/9401 |
🏛️ About Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad
The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) is a leading, autonomous, government-funded research institute that provides in-depth analysis and policy recommendations on national security, foreign policy, and international relations. Established to foster understanding of strategic issues facing Pakistan, ISSI houses specialized centers focusing on various regions, including South Asia, the Middle East, and China. The institute regularly publishes journals, books, and policy briefs, and hosts high-level dialogues with policymakers, diplomats, and academics. Joining ISSI as a Research Associate means becoming part of a vibrant intellectual community that directly contributes to the formulation of Pakistan's strategic thought.
📋 Position Details — Research Associate
Role Summary
The Research Associate will conduct independent and collaborative research on strategic issues, with a strong emphasis on India/South Asia if that is the area of specialization. The role involves producing high-quality research papers, policy briefs, and contributing to ISSI's publications and events.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct research on assigned topics related to national security, foreign policy, and international relations, particularly South Asia.
- Author research papers, policy briefs, and articles for ISSI's journals and website.
- Assist senior researchers and the Director in project design and report writing.
- Organize and participate in seminars, roundtables, and conferences.
- Monitor regional and global strategic developments and provide timely analysis.
- Maintain and update the institute's database of publications and research resources.
- Mentor interns and junior research staff as needed.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Qualification
- Master's degree or equivalent/16 years of education in International Relations, Political Science, Defence & Strategic Studies, Peace & Conflict Studies, Defence & Diplomatic Studies, or any comparable discipline. Candidates with a specialization in India/South Asia will be preferred.
Experience & Publications
- Minimum two years of research experience at a reputable university or institution.
- Two research publications/papers published in HEC recognized journals are mandatory.
Age Limit
- Maximum 35 years. Federal age relaxation rules will be applied as per government policy.
💡 Required Skills & Competencies
- Excellent research, analytical, and writing skills in English.
- Proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
- Strong command of regional strategic dynamics, especially India-Pakistan relations.
- Ability to work under deadlines and produce clear, concise policy briefs.
- Familiarity with academic publishing and referencing styles (Chicago, APA).
- Strong presentation and communication skills.
💰 Salary & Benefits (BPS‑17)
This is a regular BPS‑17 position under the Government of Pakistan. The salary package includes:
- Basic Pay Scale BPS‑17 (approx. PKR 45,000 – 75,000/month depending on years of service).
- Government allowances (House Rent, Medical, Conveyance) as per rules.
- Pension and provident fund benefits.
- Professional growth in a prestigious think-tank environment.
- Opportunities for publication and attending national/international conferences.
📝 How to Apply Online
- Visit the National Job Portal: https://njp.gov.pk/jobs/9401
- Click "Login to Apply". Create an NJP account if you don’t have one.
- Complete the online application form with personal, educational, and professional details.
- Upload scanned copies of your Master's degree, transcripts, experience certificates, CNIC, and recent photograph.
- Clearly list your two HEC‑recognized publications in the relevant section or attach the front pages.
- Submit the application before 22 July 2026.
📄 Required Documents Checklist
- Updated CV/Resume highlighting research experience.
- Attested copies of Master's degree and transcripts.
- Experience certificates from previous research institutions.
- Copies of first pages of both HEC‑recognized publications (or DOI/links).
- Copy of CNIC.
- Recent passport‑size photograph.
🔄 Selection Process
- Application Screening: ISSI HR reviews online applications for eligibility.
- Shortlisting: Candidates meeting the experience and publication criteria are shortlisted.
- Written Test / Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be called for a research writing test and/or panel interview in Islamabad.
- Final Offer: Subject to document verification and approval.
📅 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Job Posted | 08 July 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 22 July 2026 |
📝 Tips for a Successful Application
- Highlight your India/South Asia research focus in your CV and cover statement if the portal allows.
- Ensure the two publications are clearly from HEC‑recognized journals; provide ISSN/DOI if possible.
- Quantify your research experience: e.g., "Authored 5 policy briefs on Indian foreign policy."
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without the mandatory two HEC‑recognized publications.
- Not meeting the 2‑year research experience requirement.
- Ignoring the age limit of 35 years.
- Uploading documents that are not properly attested.
🎯 Who Should Apply?
- Research professionals with a strong background in international relations, strategic studies, and area studies.
- Recent MPhil or Master's graduates who have already published in HEC journals and have some research experience.
- Individuals with a keen interest in India‑Pakistan relations and South Asian security dynamics.
- Candidates based in or willing to relocate to Islamabad.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: What is the last date to apply?
A: 22 July 2026. - Q: Is this a permanent position?
A: Yes, it is a regular (permanent) BPS‑17 position. - Q: Can I apply with a Master's degree in Defence & Strategic Studies?
A: Yes, that is explicitly listed as an eligible discipline. - Q: Are both publications mandatory?
A: Yes, the advertisement clearly mentions "two research Publications/papers published in HEC recognized journals". - Q: Is there an application fee?
A: No application fee is mentioned.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The Research Associate position at ISSI is a prestigious opportunity for a dedicated researcher to join one of Pakistan's most influential think tanks. With a regular BPS‑17 status and the chance to contribute to national strategic policy, this role is ideal for academics with a proven publication record. Prepare your application and submit it online before 22 July 2026 to embark on a fulfilling research career.
🌐 Apply Now — ISSI Research Associate (BPS‑17) 2026! Regular Position | 2 Years Research Exp + Publications | Deadline: 22 July 2026 | Apply at njp.gov.pk
🌐 Apply Online Now 🏛️ Visit ISSI Website