Research Analyst - Aerospace

About IDA

IDA is a non‑profit 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.

We have an immediate opening in the Science, Systems, and Sustainment Division (S3D) for a Research Analyst with technical expertise in modeling, coding, and data analysis. The ideal candidate supports the broad spectrum of research conducted in S3D, including technical support to Golden Dome, one of the nation’s highest defense priorities, and is an expert in their respective field. S3D explores topics that span the technology life cycle, from basic science to system implementation and analyses, and the sustainment of deployed systems.

• 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.
• Prepare reports and presentations documenting findings, conclusions, and recommendations, and effectively communicate the results of IDA’s analysis to sponsors and selected audiences.

• Education
  • PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, or a closely related field of science, technology, or research + 2 years of post‑grad experience, or
  • MS in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, or a closely related field of science, technology, or research + 6 years experience
• Ideally at least 2 years of post‑graduate experience conducting technical research, modeling, testing, or design.
• A demonstrated record of research accomplishments in the field of study.
• Experience with topics of space science and technology such as satellites, space environments, orbitology/constellation design, orbital debris, space domain awareness, spacecraft propulsion, or space launch is required.
• A demonstrated ability to perform independent research.
• Programming experience, preferably with modern programming environments and languages (C++, Python, etc.). The ideal candidate will have familiarity with AFSIM.
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, particularly the ability to communicate technical information to technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Significant interest in Department of Defense issues, military operations, and related subjects is desired.
• Successful completion of a background check is required.
• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Travel (domestic or international) may be required.

IDA is a non-profit 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. This position is located in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, D.C.

• Complete the application and submit your resume.
• The application process consists of three interviews:
  • A short screening call with HR.
  • A 30‑min to 60‑min screening call with researchers.
  • Full day interview with various researchers and staff, including giving a presentation on a research project.
• Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
  • Transcripts (unofficial accepted).
  • Three letters of recommendation.
  • A writing sample.

We provide a comprehensive benefits package that ensures the well‑being and security of our staff and their families. Medical plans, stand‑alone dental and vision coverage, a…