Institute for Strategic Transactions
Student Research Associate (Voluntary)
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About the IST
The Institute for Strategic Transactions (IST) is an emerging research and education platform focused on the intersection of geopolitics, geoeconomics, and private-market transactions.
We tackle real-world questions that shape investment, M&A, and corporate strategy in strategic industries, including defence, technology, energy, and infrastructure.
Role Overview
We are seeking highly motivated students to contribute to applied research at the intersection of geopolitics and business decision-making. This is a structured, voluntary research fellowship designed for students seeking exposure to real-world analytical frameworks used in investment, advisory, and strategic roles.
You will support the development of analytical tools and insights used to assess how geopolitical forces impact companies, transactions, and industries.
What you will work on
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You will contribute to selected research studies streams such as:
- Mapping geopolitical and policy drivers affecting strategic industries
- Analysing how export controls, industrial policy, and national security considerations impact companies
- Translating macro/geopolitical developments into business model and valuation implications
- Supporting case studies on M&A transactions in sensitive or strategic sectors
- Building structured research outputs (briefs, models, sector notes)
- Work will be clearly scoped and project-based, with defined outputs.
What you will gain
This fellowship is designed to provide meaningful, career-relevant exposure, including:
- Practical understanding of how geopolitics affects deals, investment decisions, and corporate strategy
- Exposure to analytical approaches used in M&A, private equity, and strategic advisory
- Mentorship and feedback on your work
- Opportunity to contribute to high-quality research outputs and publications
- A strong signal for careers in investment banking, consulting, private equity, or policy
- Certificate of successful research contribution and reference (subject to performance)
- Top-performing fellows may be considered for paid project work or internships, where available.
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Who We Are Looking For
We are interested in candidates who demonstrate:
- Strong academic performance in economics, finance, international relations, or related fields
- Genuine interest in geopolitics, geoeconomics, and business strategy
- Structured thinking and the ability to connect macro trends to company-level impact
- High level of curiosity and intellectual independence
- Clear and concise written communication
Prior experience is not required, but analytical rigour is essential.
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