Position Available
Researcher/Writer, Will to Intervene (W2I) Project
Montreal Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies (MIGS), Concordia University, in Partnership with General Roméo Dallaire
(Full-time, 9-month contract, Montreal-based)
Description
In partnership with General Roméo Dallaire, a member of the United Nations Advisory Committee to the Secretary-General on Genocide Prevention, MIGS’ mission includes the development and management of major research programs focusing on the prevention of genocide and other crimes against humanity. In pursuit of this goal, MIGS has developed the concept of W2I, a crucial project that it is urgently pursuing in partnership with General Dallaire.
W2I will operationalize key aspects of the groundbreaking work of the Canadian Government-sponsored Responsibility to Protect initiative, the key recommendations of which world leaders endorsed at the UN World Summit (2005). Focusing on Canada and the United States, the goal of W2I is to develop practical tools to generate the political will to prevent genocide and other crimes against humanity.
MIGS was co-founded in 1986 by Professor Frank Chalk, former President of the International Association of Genocide Scholars, and co-author of The History and Sociology of Genocide. The Institute seeks to not only uncover the underlying reasons for genocide and other crimes against humanity, but also to put forth concrete policy recommendations to resolve conflicts before they intensify and spiral into mass atrocity crimes.
Responsibilities
Reporting directly to Professor Chalk and to the Lead Researcher, the Researcher/Writer will engage in literature analysis, interviewing of senior politicians, bureaucrats, and other high-profile actors, the hosting of workshops, the interpretation and synthesis of findings, and the drafting of a publishable policy report. The successful candidate will possess outstanding English writing skills and will be responsible for writing a substantial portion of the study report.
Qualifications
The successful candidate will possess the following qualifications, skills, and abilities:
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Advanced degree in history, political science, journalism, law or other relevant social science (or equivalent professional qualification/experience)
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Strong knowledge of domestic U.S. and Canadian politics and processes of policy-making
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Fluent English; a working knowledge of French would be an asset
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Demonstrated ability to advance projects, set priorities, manage exceptions, and work as part of a team
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Demonstrated ability to conduct, synthesize, interpret, and communicate research under tight deadlines
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Highly developed writing skills
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Demonstrated ability to conduct formal interviews and/or lead workshops/meetings
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Willingness to travel within North America
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Ability to assist in grant writing
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Available to begin work on October 1, 2008
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Must be a Canadian citizen or immediately meet the Canadian Government’s legal requirements for work in Canada
Salary and Benefits
MIGS seeks exceptional candidates, motivated by an urge to make a valuable contribution in the sphere of human rights, and offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with other employers in this field. Please note that while the appointment is for a nine month period, the contract could be extended for another four months (until the end of September 2009), funds permitting.
Application Procedure
Applications should include a cover letter explaining your interest in and aptitude for the role, a resumé, and the contact details of three referees. You are encouraged to submit your application by email or regular mail to the attention of Kyle Matthews. Lead Researcher, at the address below as early as possible, no later than Tuesday, 14 September, 2008.
Montreal Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies
Concordia University
1455 de Maisonneuve Blvd W.
Montreal (Quebec); H3G 1M8
MIGS is an equal opportunity employer and, in order to build the strongest possible research team, actively seeks a diverse applicant pool.