Migration Policy Institute Is Hiring: Research Assistant – U.S. Immigration Policy Program | Washington, DC | Salary: $52,000–$67,000/Year | Apply by 24 August 2026

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Looking for Migration Policy Institute jobs in 2026? The Migration Policy Institute Research Assistant position is an excellent opportunity for professionals interested in immigration policy, public policy research, and international affairs. If you are searching for Migration Policy Institute careers, U.S. immigration policy jobs, or research assistant jobs in Washington, DC, this opportunity offers competitive pay, excellent benefits, and outstanding career growth.
The Migration Policy Institute (MPI) is currently hiring a Research Assistant – U.S. Immigration Policy Program based in Washington, DC, USA. The successful candidate will work with one of the world’s leading independent think tanks focused on migration, immigration, and integration policy.
Application Deadline: 24 August 2026
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Migration Policy Institute Research Assistant Job Overview
| Job Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Migration Policy Institute (MPI) |
| Position | Research Assistant – U.S. Immigration Policy Program |
| Location | Washington, DC, USA |
| Job Type | Full-Time |
| Work Arrangement | Hybrid (Minimum three days in office) |
| Salary | USD $52,000–$67,000 per year |
| Application Deadline | 24 August 2026 |
| Visa Sponsorship | Not Available |
About the Migration Policy Institute
The Migration Policy Institute (MPI) is an independent, nonpartisan think tank dedicated to improving immigration and integration policies worldwide through research, policy analysis, and dialogue.
MPI works with policymakers, researchers, governments, and stakeholders to develop practical solutions to complex migration challenges. The organization promotes evidence-based policymaking and values diversity, inclusion, and equity within its workforce.
Professionals seeking Migration Policy Institute careers, migration research jobs, or public policy research opportunities will find MPI to be an excellent employer with a strong global reputation.
Research Assistant Job Summary
The Migration Policy Institute Research Assistant will support the U.S. Immigration Policy Program by conducting research, monitoring immigration policy developments, analyzing legislation, preparing reports, and contributing to research publications.
This Research Assistant job offers significant professional development opportunities while working alongside leading experts in immigration and migration policy.
The role covers important topics including:
- Immigration policy
- Visa pathways
- Refugee resettlement
- Asylum
- Border management
- Immigration enforcement
- Demographic research
- Federal immigration policy
Candidates searching for research assistant jobs, immigration policy jobs, or think tank careers should strongly consider this opportunity.
Key Responsibilities
The selected Research Assistant will:
- Monitor U.S. immigration policy developments
- Track congressional actions and regulatory updates
- Analyze executive actions and court rulings
- Conduct literature reviews
- Collect quantitative and qualitative research data
- Draft research summaries and policy memoranda
- Prepare tables, datasets, and statistical information
- Assist with research publications
- Support webinars, public events, and policy briefings
- Participate in research interviews
- Help supervise interns
- Assist with project management
- Support fundraising through proposal writing
- Use AI tools in accordance with organizational policies
Required Qualifications
Applicants should possess:
- Bachelor’s degree with at least one year of professional experience (or equivalent significant experience)
- Excellent research skills
- Strong analytical abilities
- Outstanding English writing skills
- Knowledge of U.S. immigration policy
- Experience with quantitative or qualitative research
- Ability to conduct legal and policy research
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines
- Excellent communication skills
- Interest in migration policy, immigration studies, or public policy
Preferred Qualifications
The ideal candidate may also have:
- Foreign language skills
- Experience using Excel, Stata, or statistical software
- Knowledge of immigration law
- Advanced quantitative research experience
- Policy analysis experience
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Salary and Benefits
The Migration Policy Institute Research Assistant salary ranges from USD $52,000 to $67,000 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.
Additional benefits include:
- Competitive annual salary
- Comprehensive health benefits
- Retirement benefits
- Professional development opportunities
- Career advancement
- Hybrid work arrangement
- Collaborative work environment
- Exposure to leading migration policy experts
Professionals looking for high-paying research assistant jobs in Washington, DC will find this position highly competitive.
Why You Should Apply
Working with the Migration Policy Institute provides an opportunity to contribute to impactful immigration policy research that shapes national and international discussions.
Benefits of joining MPI include:
- Work alongside globally recognized migration experts
- Build expertise in immigration policy
- Publish policy research
- Participate in high-level policy discussions
- Develop advanced research skills
- Gain experience in a respected international think tank
- Access long-term career growth opportunities
This is an ideal role for professionals seeking Migration Policy Institute jobs, immigration policy careers, public policy jobs, research assistant careers, or Washington, DC think tank jobs.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit:
- Cover letter
- Resume
- Unedited sole-authored writing sample
Email all application documents to the address provided in the official vacancy announcement.
When applying:
- Label each file using your last name.
- Use “Research Assistant, U.S. Program” as the email subject.
- Include a brief note explaining how you learned about the vacancy.
Only applicants authorized to work in the United States are eligible, as visa sponsorship is not available.
Application Deadline
Applications close on 24 August 2026.
Early applications are encouraged since submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Final Thoughts
The Migration Policy Institute Research Assistant – U.S. Immigration Policy Program vacancy is an outstanding opportunity for professionals interested in immigration policy, migration research, and public policy careers. Offering a competitive salary of USD $52,000–$67,000 annually, generous benefits, hybrid work flexibility, and the chance to work with one of the world’s leading migration think tanks, this position is ideal for candidates looking to build a meaningful career in policy research.
If you are searching for Migration Policy Institute jobs 2026, Research Assistant jobs in Washington, DC, immigration policy jobs, public policy careers, or migration research opportunities, this is a position worth applying for before the 24 August 2026 deadline.



