Research Analyst - Entry-Level STEM PhD

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 technical strengths to the national security and defense enterprise.

While the ideal candidate is eager to 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, learning existing code packages and employing them in novel contexts, developing novel IDA‑owned code packages to augment 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.

• 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.

• A genuine interest in supporting the national security enterprise.
• 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.
• 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, particularly the ability to communicate technical information to technical and non‑technical audiences, including IDA collaborators and project leaders.
• Successful completion of a criminal background check is required.
• Limited 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.

• 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; 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, cafeteria, and close proximity to local dining and shopping.
• Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.