Research Analyst - Entry-Level STEM PhD

What is the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA)?

IDA is a non-profit, federally-funded research and development center (FFRDC) that is uniquely positioned to answer the most challenging U.S. security and science questions with objective and rigorous analysis leveraging extraordinary scientific, technical, and analytic expertise. Work at IDA is conducted in a team environment and often involves a multi-disciplinary approach. This position is located at IDA's state-of-the-art Systems and Analyses Center (SAC) in Alexandria, VA. IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive and competitive salary and benefits package.

What is S3D, and who are we are looking for to join us?

IDA has an immediate opening in the Science, Systems, and Sustainment Division (S3D) for a Research Analyst with PhD-level subject-matter expertise, competitive data analysis/computational skills, and a genuine interest in applying their technical strengths to the national security and defense enterprise.

S3D is a Division of IDA's SAC, and supports multiple government sponsors with rigorous research and analysis. Our research spans the lifecycle of cutting-edge technologies and strategic defense planning, from analyzing exploratory weapons concepts using basic scientific expertise, to developing computational programs to predict and/or assess the behavior of existing systems and resources, to attending onsite test and evaluation events at military bases around the world. In all instances, IDA takes great pride in the high caliber and timeliness of its analyses, which are produced in a collegial atmosphere that encourages independent thinking, teamwork, and objective results.

While the ideal candidate is eager to eventually support a broad spectrum of S3D research, we are looking for immediate assistance supporting projects evaluating the survivability of space systems and networks against various threat vectors.

The ideal candidate is comfortable performing detailed technical computations in order to answer specific sponsor questions, learning existing code packages and employing them in novel contexts, developing novel IDA-owned code packages to augment its analytic capabilities, and presenting their work in a clear, effective, and timely manner to high-ranking government officials. Analysts often work in highly-classified environments, and sometimes travel to present or collaborate. We have regular contact with government sponsors, with whom we are also expected to build solid, lasting relationships.

Responsibilities

Research Analysts are responsible for contributing to scientifically sound research and providing technical review for others' research products. IDA addresses diverse and ever-changing topics. Research Analysts are expected to be adaptable, self-motivated, and committed to life-long learning; capable of working independently or as a member of an interdisciplinary research team; and able to work multiple projects concurrently. Specific research-related activities expected of Research Analysts include:

• Develop and maintain relationships with potential sponsors and stakeholders in the national security community to identify emerging issues.
• Engage effectively with sponsors to understand their issues and constraints, and develop responsive research plans.
• Formulate research questions that address sponsors' challenging and complex problems, and are informed by the broader context of national security.
• Identify key factors of the issue under study, and create and execute appropriate quantitative analytic methodologies, including novel computational and model-based approaches.
• Interact with government officials, military personnel, and other subject matter experts during the research process.
• Analyze, evaluate, and integrate data and model results to develop strategic and actionable insights, often through the development of tailored software.
• Prepare reports and presentations documenting findings, conclusions, and recommendations and effectively communicate the results of IDA's analysis to sponsors and selected audiences.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a highly technical/computational field, e.g., physics, chemistry, engineering, computer science, (applied) mathematics, or a related STEM field.
• A demonstrated record of research accomplishments in the field of study.
• A demonstrated ability to perform independent and collaborative research.
• A demonstrated ability to meet externally-imposed project deadlines.
• Significant experience conceptualizing, developing, and documenting software tools for data analysis, modeling, and simulation
• Significant programming experience with modern computing environments and languages (Python, C/C++, R, MATLAB, etc.)
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, particularly the ability to communicate technical information to technical and non-technical audiences, including your IDA collaborators and project leaders.
• A genuine interest in supporting the national security enterprise.
• Successful completion of a criminal background check is required.
• Travel (domestic or international) may be required.
• Candidates must meet eligibility requirements for obtaining a TS/SCI clearance. Having a current TS/SCI is strongly desired.

Why work at IDA?

IDA, as a non-profit, is uniquely positioned to answer the most challenging U.S. security and science questions with objective and rigorous analysis leveraging extraordinary scientific, technical, and analytic expertise. This position is located in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, D.C.

IDA offers the following benefits and resources to their employees:

• Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement;
• Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL);
• Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external trainings, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications;
• A culture of work-life balance, including flex time, partial telework, and limiting work communication to core business hours;
• The opportunity to craft your own unique research portfolio of distinct value to the national security enterprise.
• A brand-new facility located in Alexandria's high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include a gym and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
• Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $325/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

What are the next steps?

• Complete the application and submit your resume.

The application process consists of three interviews.

• A short screening call with HR;
• A 30 min - 60 min screening call with researchers; and
• A full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving an hour presentation on a research project.

Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:

• Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
• 3 letters of recommendation; and
• A writing sample.

We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $112,924-$263,335. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.