Research Analyst - Entry-Level STEM PhD

About IDA

IDA is a non‑profit, federally‑funded research and development center (FFRDC) that answers challenging U.S. security and science questions with objective and rigorous analysis. Work 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 offers an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package.

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 and computational skills, and a genuine interest in applying technical strengths to the national security and defense enterprise. The role focuses on projects evaluating the survivability of space systems and networks against various threat vectors, performing detailed technical computations, learning and developing code packages, and presenting findings to high‑ranking government officials.

• 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, 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 IDA’s analysis results to sponsors and selected audiences.

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

• Comprehensive benefits, including diverse health insurance options, 10% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement.
• Mission‑oriented work at a non‑profit supporting and protecting warfighters; eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL).
• Professional development opportunities: tuition reimbursement, internal and external trainings, and funding for researcher‑pushed projects and publications.
• Culture of work‑life balance: flex time, partial telework, and limited work communication to core business hours.
• Opportunity to craft a unique research portfolio of distinct value to the national security enterprise.
• Brand‑new facility in Alexandria’s high‑tech corridor, Potomac Yard, with amenities such as a gym and cafeteria, and proximity to local dining and shopping.
• Easy access to public transit, with employer contribution to commuter benefits.

IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to a fair recruiting process and an environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

IDA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require an accommodation during the application process or to perform essential job functions, please contact employment.

U.S. Citizenship is required.

Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required.