February 28, 2013

MPAC is seeking the best and brightest for its competitive and engaging Policy Research Fellowship that gives researchers an opportunity to present information that will impact the policy-making process. MPAC seeks to identify and develop those with an interest in public affairs to engage in faith-based policy research and advocacy in the heart of the nation's capital.

DOWNLOAD: Requirements for Spring 2013 Policy Research Fellowship (mpac.org)
DOWNLOAD: Description of Spring 2013 Policy Research Fellowship Topic: Drones (mpac.org)

“This is a one-of-a-kind fellowship, which has produced important research papers on Muslims in American history, the crisis in Syria and education in Afghanistan,” said Haris Tarin, director of MPAC’s Washington, DC, office. “Our fellows are producing work and research that has a direct impact on American Muslims and where we stand in the public discourse about Islam and Muslims.”

This year, MPAC will select three Policy Research Fellows to each participate in a four-month fellowship, which will include opportunities to:

• Conduct research on pressing policy issues and author policy papers and memos which will be utilized by MPAC staff to engage policy-makers
• Engage congressional offices, government agencies and civil society organizations
• Network with a variety of high-caliber professionals from a multitude of backgrounds in our nation's capital

The Spring Fellowship will focus on "Drones: Realities, Myths and the Need for Regulations." The past decade has seen a proliferation of drone use by U.S. military, intelligence and law enforcement agencies. Initially used for surveillance in regions where human intelligence has been difficult to use, drones have evolved into a lethal national security tool that have significantly changed the way militaries are engaged in warfare, especially asymmetrical warfare. Yet, the impact of drone use has also been felt in different regions, such as South Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Although drones have killed high-valued terrorists hiding in difficult terrain, they have also killed civilians and have become a cause of fear.

All applications and any questions about the Policy Research Fellowship should be sent directly to Haris Tarin, Director of MPAC’s DC office, at haris@mpac.org or 202-547-7701. The deadline to apply is March 22.