International House of Japan (IHJ) seeks a Research Assistant (native English speaker) to Dr. FUNABASHI Yoichi, Chaiman of the Global Council, Distinguished Journalist-in-Residence, and Founder of Asia Pacific Initiative in International House of Japan. He is former editor-in-chief of the Asahi Shimbun and one of Japan’s most prominent and internationally respected public intellectuals. We regularly collaborate with globally recognized institutions such as the World Economic Forum, the Brookings Institution, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the Council on Foreign Relations, the International Institute for Strategic Studies, the Australian National University, and others.

This is an exciting and rare opportunity to help shape public debate, as well as Japan’s domestic and global policy. For those apt and interested, please send your CV in English (and Japanese, if available), as well as a cover letter in English that includes your reasons for applying, strengths you will bring to the position and your current situation, to . We are only seeking native English speakers. Unsuccessful applicants will not be contacted.

The International House of Japan (I-House) is a private, nonprofit organization incorporated in 1952 with support from the Rockefeller Foundation and other private institutions and individuals for the purpose of promoting cultural exchange and intellectual cooperation between the peoples of Japan and those of other countries.

On the occasion of its 70th anniversary, I-House established a new mission statement—“Contribute to building a free, open, and sustainable future through intellectual dialogue, policy research, and cultural exchange with a diverse world”—with the aim of becoming a leading intellectual hub for the Asia-Pacific region.

We seek to fulfill our mission through the merging of our three major assets: programs in the four domains of (1) international relations, regional studies, and geopolitics; (2) social systems, governance, and innovation; (3) civilization studies and philosophy; and (4) art and design; a vibrant community of illustrious members; and outstanding facilities that can accommodate international dignitaries.

Dr. Yoichi Funabashi is Chaiman of the Global Council, Distinguished Journalist-in-Residence, and Founder of Asia Pacific Initiative in International House of Japan. He is former editor-in-chief of the Asahi Shimbun and one of Japan’s most prominent and internationally respected public intellectuals. We regularly collaborate with globally recognized institutions such as the World Economic Forum, the Brookings Institution, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the Council on Foreign Relations, the International Institute for Strategic Studies, the Australian National University, and others.

Personal research assistant to Dr. FUNABSHI Yoichi.

Depending on experience, the candidate may also be asked to support or manage events and projects. Since the candidate will be working directly with Dr. Funabashi, this is a key strategic position within the institution with a high degree of responsibility.

• Research/writing (including articles, op-eds and papers in English for global media) on Japan’s domestic politics, diplomacy, national security, economy and technological innovation, as well as geopolitics, geoeconomics and geotechnology in the Indo-Pacific region
• Collecting, summarizing, and creating abridged translations of publicly available information (such as books, essays, newspaper articles, etc.) covering a broad range of themes (current affairs including politics, diplomatic security, international relations and economics)
• Leading one or more projects by managing and delegating tasks, overseeing interns, and communicating with partners
• Managing Dr. Funabashi’s schedule and overseas business trips in coordination with his Executive Assistant
• Creating research memos and organizing material for conferences and interviews, transcribing text and producing summaries
• Writing speeches, assisting with preparation for panels, and drafting letters and e-mails in English for Dr. Funabashi
• Assisting with event-planning and event management
• Assisting in project management and cross-border collaborations
• Liaising with world leaders, government officials, CEOs, policy analysts, and others
• Providing Japanese-English/English-Japanese translation support for public relations activities and other office work
• Various administrative tasks related to Dr. Funabashi’s publications
• Other work related to the above

• Native English speaker
• Skilled writer
• Advanced Japanese language skills (above business level; at least JLPT N３)
• Graduation thesis/master’s thesis level writing skills
• Experience in business research
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills
• Interest and knowledge of international affairs or Japanese and Asian politics
• Ability to work at a fast pace
• Strong organizational skills
• Able to prioritize and compromise effectively
• Flexible schedule to adjust to work requirements as needed
• Aspiration to work in politics, journalism or academia
• Preferably living in Japan now and/or has experience in a Japanese working environment