[Hiring] Open Source Analyst - Violent Extremist Organisations - Pakistan Specialist @Centre for Information Resilience

Role Description

The OSINT Investigator utilises their open-source intelligence (OSINT) investigation skills to conduct research and analysis of open-source information in support of CIR’s Terrorism research project objectives. As an OSINT Investigator, you will use your expertise to acquire and analyse information from open sources, extracting the key pieces of information to write high-quality narrative reports and project products that are comprehensive, verified, accurate, and placed correctly within the context of Pakistani affairs.

You will work with and support the Investigations Lead and Senior Project Manager, ensuring that your analysis is focused effectively to meet project tasking and product priorities. You will also provide assistance to the team to understand the cultural, political, and social dynamics of Pakistan.

Main Responsibilities

• Provide subject-matter expertise on Violent Extremist Organisation (VEO) ecosystems in Pakistan, guiding analytical direction and helping translate complex open-source intelligence (OSINT) and social media intelligence (SOCMINT) findings into clear, decision-relevant insights for stakeholders and donors.
• Employ OSINT and SOCMINT tools, techniques and methodologies to conduct analysis of trends, and issues related to Violent Extremist Organisation (VEO) activity in Pakistan.
• Conduct research and analysis as directed in support of project reporting objectives.
• Mentor and support analysts by offering guidance on methodologies, reporting standards, and best practices in monitoring and propaganda analysis.
• Track and analyse propaganda, messaging trends, and narrative shifts from VEOs in Pakistan, including across public platforms (TikTok, Facebook) and niche or encrypted platforms (Telegram, Rocket.Chat, Element), including semi-closed communities where accessible.
• Conduct propaganda analysis (themes, narratives, key influencers, and dissemination networks) and track changes over time.
• Identify emerging platforms, communication trends, and shifts in VEO platform usage to maintain collection relevance.
• Assist with the development, writing, and review of analytical outputs, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and timely delivery across products, while identifying new lines of inquiry and investigation.
• Assist with translation of collected content (required languages: Pashto and Urdu; Dari would be beneficial).

Qualifications

• Proven ability to analyse Violent Extremist Organisation activity, including propaganda, narratives, and platform usage trends within the regional context in Pakistan.
• Experience using open-source and social media intelligence tools and techniques to collect, analyse, and interpret complex data into actionable insights.
• Ability to identify trends, assess messaging shifts, and produce high-quality, accurate, and timely analytical outputs that inform decision-making.

Requirements

• Contract Type: Contractor
• Contract length: 4-5 months
• Hours needed: Full hours or part-time
• Location: Remote
• Languages: Must be able to speak and write English and have working proficiency in both Pashto and Urdu languages.
• Closing date: Tuesday 19th May 2026 at 23:55pm

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and complete the application form questions. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview, which can be conducted remotely unless specified otherwise. CIR encourages applicants from under-represented communities.

CIR is an equal opportunities employer. If you require adjustments or additional support to complete this process, please let us know in your application.