Research Analyst - Entry-Level STEM PhD

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non‑profit, federally‑funded research and development center (FFRDC) 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, and provides an inclusive work environment with a comprehensive and competitive salary and benefits package. S3D Division 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. S3D supports multiple government sponsors with rigorous research and analysis across the lifecycle of cutting‑edge technologies and strategic defense planning, from exploring weapons concepts to developing computational programs for predicting and assessing the behavior of existing systems and resources, and attending on‑site test and evaluation events at military bases worldwide. The ideal candidate will support projects evaluating the survivability of space systems and networks against various threat vectors, perform detailed technical computations, learn and employ existing code packages, develop novel IDA‑owned code packages, and present work in a clear, effective, and timely manner to high‑ranking government officials. Responsibilities 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 the results of IDA’s analysis to sponsors and selected audiences. Qualifications 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. 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. Benefits 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. Salary A reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $113,353 – $277,494. Requirements U.S. citizenship is required. Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required. Equal Opportunity Employment IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working 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 working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or in order to perform the essential functions of the position, please let us know. #J-18808-Ljbffr Institute for Defense Analyses