Senior Research Analyst / Research Leader - Defence (Dutch fluency)

Posted 6/12/2026 · last confirmed live 8/26/2026

RAND is a not-for-profit research institute with over 30 years of experience in conducting policy research for governments, international organisations, research councils, charitable foundations, and other organisations. We believe that good research helps shape sound answers to pressing societal challenges, ultimately making communities safer and more secure, healthier and more prosperous in the future. RAND Europe has offices in Cambridge, Brussels and The Hague and employs approximately 200 staff. We wish to recruit an experienced defence expert with a strong understanding of the Dutch and European defence and security context. We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in areas such as defence policy, strategy, capability development, acquisition, innovation and technology or related issues. We are looking for someone who can develop business, lead proposals and research projects and represent RAND in public and media engagements. You will work in a multidisciplinary team in the Defence, Security and Justice (DSJ) research group. The DSJ research group conducts a wide-ranging portfolio of research for a diverse client base in the UK, Europe and beyond. Our clients in the Netherlands include the Ministry of Defence, the armed forces, the NCTV and other public bodies. International clients include the European institutions (e.g. the Defence and Space DG of the European Commission, the European Defence Agency, the European Parliament), national governments and agencies, international defence and security organisations (e.g. NATO), and various third sector and humanitarian organisations. As part of our strategy to grow our work in the Netherlands, RAND Europe is looking for an experienced researcher to help manage and grow our defence and security portfolio. The successful applicant will lead business development and project delivery, and we are therefore particularly interested in candidates with experience of winning, designing and delivering projects in the Netherlands. This position offers the opportunity to work at an internationally respected research organisation. Here, you will lead, manage and conduct collaborative research on defence and security topics – both classified and unclassified – in an intellectually stimulating, fast-paced and diverse working environment. You will directly inform government policy and decision-making at senior levels and generate public impact through your research. RAND Europe offers the chance to work on a variety of topic areas, with a range of methodologies, learning from a range of different colleagues, clients and collaborators globally. Key Responsibilities Research Leadership Contributing to research design, selecting appropriate analytical approaches, undertaking data collection, and analysing and reporting findings. Contributing to the group’s thought leadership on defence strategy, policy, capability development, acquisition, defence economics, defence workforce and the armed forces. Helping to raise RAND Europe’s profile and communicate research findings to maximise impact. Business development Building on RAND Europe’s strong research track record by leading the delivery of a varied portfolio of projects in the Netherlands and helping expand into new areas of work. Coordinating, managing, and supporting business development initiatives, including bid and proposal activity. Building and maintaining networks with funders and collaborators in the Netherlands. Group and other responsibilities Working with team members and the DSJ Senior Leadership Team and Research Group Director to deliver the group’s strategic objectives. Helping ensure that RAND Europe’s research has a positive impact within policy communities and the wider world. Requirements Excellent command of Dutch and English (spoken and written); ability to communicate complex findings clearly to policymakers. Ability to lead research projects, develop business, lead proposals and represent RAND in public and media engagements. Proven expertise in, and understanding of, the Dutch defence and security landscape, with experience in one or more of the following areas: defence policy, strategy, capability development, acquisition, innovation, technology, or related issues. Experience of integrating multiple research and analysis methods as part of multi-method approaches to problem solving and/or policy research. Strong professional networks across the defence, security, and policy communities in the Netherlands and, ideally, beyond.  Evidence of working as part of a team, motivating others, mentoring and actively developing colleagues for skills and career progression. Excellent analytical, writing and presentation skills (evidenced by examples) and the proven ability to communicate effectively with clients and to varied internal and external audiences. Strong project leadership / management experience, including experience of people management, stakeholder management and budgeting. Eligible for, and willing to obtain, relevant national (e.g., Dutch) and NATO security clearance where required as part of the role. Established networks across Dutch government, academic and research institutions, the armed forces, and relevant national and international organisations. Personal qualities Commercially astute and analytically strong with the ability to understand issues strategically as well as practically from a variety of perspectives. Networking skills to build relationships, facilitate joint decision making and cultivate relationships with potential funders and collaborators. Hands-on, team player with a strong commitment to rigorous and high-quality research, public service and the ability to manage multiple projects and tasks, and work to tight deadlines. Enthusiastic about learning new skills, expanding your knowledge, willing to travel, and contributing to people development initiatives, such as training. Salary Senior Research Analyst - Starting gross annual salary of €47,000 for those that meet the minimum requirements, with flexibility for those with more experience Research Leader - Starting gross annual salary of €60,000 for those that meet the minimum requirements, with flexibility for those with more experience Benefits Full-time members of the team enjoy a competitive salary and additionally benefit from the following: Pension - 9% employer contribution; 24 days holiday per annum + public holidays; Holiday pay (monthly); Annual salary review; Sick pay; (70% pay for sickness absence up to 104 weeks) Compassionate leave; Paid travel expenses; Home office expenses (if required) and home working allowance €2 per day; Flexible working hours; Learning and development opportunities; Employee wellbeing training; Service awards. Application If you believe you are suited to the above role, please submit an application comprising of a CV and covering letter below. If you have not been contacted within 30 days of application deadline, please assume your application has not been successful.

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