Research Assistant​/Research Associate, Technology and National Security Program

Center for a New American Security - CNAS

Washington, DC

Recruitment began on September 14, 2026

and the job listing Expires on October 15, 2026

Washington, DC Full-Time Job, Mid Career Alumni Jobs

The Center for a New American Security (CNAS) seeks to hire a Research Assistant/Associate to join the Technology and National Security Program. This is a two-year, term-limited position that will principally support a project exploring cybersecurity threats from advances in quantum computing. Strong administrative, program management, and communications skills are required. Ideal candidates will have experience in research and policy development at the intersection of technology and national security and an interest in U.S. technological competitiveness and policy.

Policy-relevant knowledge and experience in quantum information sciences, cybersecurity, tabletop exercise development and execution, critical infrastructure, and national security is a plus. This is not an area studies position.

Candidates should be self-starters comfortable working as part of a small, close-knit team in a fast-paced and fluid work environment. This position requires strong verbal and written communication with internal and external stakeholders, as well as administrative, event, and project management skills. An ability to manage complex administrative tasks with diligent attention to detail is critical. A successful Research Assistant/Associate is creative, proactive, organized, detail-oriented, and able to tackle a range of tasks at one time.

The Research Assistant/Associate will be expected to perform a variety of tasks outlined below. The following is an overview of primary responsibilities. Other tasks may be required, and responsibilities will vary over time.

• Develop and manage project timelines, tasks, events, and budgets.
• Liaise with the Center’s development team to manage contact lists and support donor engagement.
• Manage the Technology and National Security Program’s communications, such as project web pages, email campaigns, and official social media.

• Perform in-depth research and analysis of emerging technology policy issues for Technology and National Security Program projects and in anticipation of new ones.
• Organize and run round tables, tabletop exercises, workshops, and interviews to engage with technology policy stakeholders.
• Conduct literature reviews.
• Communicate research and recommendations through written and verbal products, such as op-eds, public events