Position: Researcher
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Role Overview
A Researcher is responsible for conducting evidence-based research and analysis on Southeast Asia’s economic development, international trade and investment, and regional cooperation. The role involves collecting and analysing data, reviewing relevant literature and policies, preparing research reports and policy briefs, monitoring regional and global developments, and contributing to strategic foresight initiatives. Researchers also collaborate with colleagues and engage with policymakers, academics, businesses and other stakeholders to develop practical insights and policy recommendations that support sustainable economic growth, regional integration and informed decision-making across ASEAN.
Key Responsibilities
Research Project Management & Coordination: Manage assigned research projects and workstreams to ensure timely delivery of research outputs and project objectives. Coordinate research activities, timelines, and deliverables across multiple thematic areas. Develop research methodologies, analytical frameworks, and project approaches under the guidance of the Senior Researcher where required. Support project management, stakeholder coordination, and implementation of research initiatives.
Research Execution & Analysis: Undertake in-depth qualitative and quantitative research on issues relating to ASEAN economic development, trade and investment, and regional cooperation. Analyse primary and secondary data to generate evidence-based findings and policy insights. Monitor regional and global developments relevant to SEAFIC's research agenda and identify emerging issues for further analysis. Apply appropriate research methodologies and analytical tools to strengthen the quality and credibility of research outputs.
Research Outputs & Publications: Prepare and draft policy briefs, research reports, discussion papers, thematic studies, commentaries, and presentation materials. Develop policy recommendations and strategic insights based on research findings. Ensure research outputs meet SEAFIC's standards for quality, accuracy, neutrality, and policy relevance. Contribute to the dissemination and presentation of research findings to internal and external stakeholders.
Policy Engagement & Event Support: Undertake background research and content development for policy dialogues, roundtables, conferences, and closed-door discussions. Prepare stakeholder briefing notes, policy summaries, talking points, and presentation materials. Participate in stakeholder consultations, expert discussions, and policy engagement activities where required. Contribute to post-event synthesis, reports, and analytical summaries.
Team Collaboration & Research Quality: Work closely with the Senior Researcher, Directors, and external experts to ensure research quality and alignment with SEAFIC's strategic priorities. Provide technical guidance and support to Junior Researcher and interns on assigned projects. Contribute to peer review and quality assurance processes for research outputs. Maintain proper documentation of research methodologies, data sources, and project records.
Institutional Contribution: Contribute to the development of SEAFIC's research agenda, thematic priorities, and institutional knowledge base. Represent SEAFIC in selected research engagements, stakeholder meetings, and professional discussions as assigned. Contribute articles, commentaries, presentations, and other knowledge products that enhance SEAFIC's visibility and impact. Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, research integrity, objectivity, and confidentiality.
Key Requirements
Minimum 3-5 years experience in think tanks, government agencies, research institutions, or regional and international organisations is desirable.
A Master's degree or PhD in Economics, Public Policy, International Development Studies, International Relations, Political Science, or a related discipline is specified.
Candidates should have experience conducting research, particularly in economic development, public policy, international trade, investment, or regional affairs.
Researchers should be able to collect, organise, interpret, and present quantitative and qualitative data to support research findings.
Familiarity with economic modelling, scenario planning, forecasting, and big data analytics can help researchers examine future developments and potential policy outcomes.
Strong understanding of Malaysia and ASEAN's economic development, trade and investment, regional integration, and emerging geopolitical and technological trends.
Terms of Employment
Please refer to the attachment below when applying for the position.
SEAFIC Career (TOE) - Researcher
How to apply
Submit your CV, a cover letter and any recent written works or assignments to futurist@seafic.org