ESP is now accepting applications for Fall 2024 student research assistantships. If you are interested in applying, please submit your application here no later than June 30, 2024.
ESP generates impactful ideas, original theory, novel empirical research, and rigorous methodologies and frameworks for the study of economic statecraft; deepening our understanding of the present day US-China competition.
Our program offers talented students an opportunity to engage in meaningful research which is inaccessible at the undergraduate level, exceeding opportunities typically available even to graduate students.
Research workstreams generally comprise 2-8 student research assistants (SRAs) who engage with a particular line of scholarly effort. Projects usually run on a semesterly basis with deliverables produced on a 14- or 16-week timeline. Students learn to tailor written products to a variety of audiences, including products for policymakers, peer-reviewed publication, op-ed style publications, and internal discussion.
Project teams are a mix of undergraduate and graduate students from a variety of disciplines, allowing students to learn from one another and approach the topic of economic statecraft from multiple perspectives. In addition to expanding the team’s academic horizons, this dynamic often fosters organic undergraduate-graduate mentorships.
Research workstreams also provide an opportunity for students to take on leadership roles. Larger projects are co-led by two student team leads who are responsible for holding weekly meetings, organizing and delegating tasks, managing project timelines, and communicating resource and scheduling needs to the Project Coordinator. Students in this role are intuitive problem solvers and have strong organizational, communication, and time management skills. New team leads have the opportunity to participate in a three-part leadership seminar exploring what defines leadership, a leader’s core competencies, and how to effectively manage teams.
If interested in joining our research workstreams, please consider submitting an application and/or contact economicstatecraft@tamu.edu for more information.
Applicants should have strong writing skills and an interest in Sino-American relations, economic statecraft, economic security, and/or Asia. Ideally they can manage an efficient workstream with rapid turnaround times, have availability for weekly meetings, operate well in an entrepreneurial and enthusiastic program culture, and communicate professionally. Language and quantitative skills are a plus but not essential. US citizenship required.
