Research Analyst - Cyberspace Operations

Apply your analytical skills to support the Department of War's assessments of full-spectrum cyberspace operations. Provide rigorous independent analysis and insights to key decision-makers in the Department and Congress to ensure that the warfighting enterprise is secure, resilient, and mission-capable. Make a tangible impact with great pay and benefits.

About IDA

This position is part of IDA's Operational Evaluation Division (OED), located in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, D.C. IDA is a non-profit, federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) that delivers objective, rigorous analysis on the nation's toughest national security, technology, and science policy challenges. Our work is team-based, multi-disciplinary, and deeply impactful to national defense.

What does research look like in this position?

• Plan, design, observe, and analyze assessments of full-spectrum cyberspace operations within the Department of War. Define data needs and analysis and reporting methods.
• Work independently, in small teams, and collaboratively with government sponsors, to advocate for operationally realistic cyber assessments, ensuring that military systems are resilient and that forces can achieve and sustain dominance in the cyberspace domain.
• Develop firsthand knowledge of cyberspace operations by participating in Department-wide planning and attending assessment events.
• Conduct independent, in-depth analyses of assessment results to assess the ability of equipped combat forces to conduct realistic operations in contested, threat-representative conditions.
• Present findings to mid- and senior-level officials (e.g., presidential appointees, generals, admirals, etc.) through oral presentations and written reports.

What qualifications and skill-sets do you need?

Required:

• Candidate must meet one of the following education/experience combinations:

• PhD in a STEM field (such as Physics, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, Engineering (such Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Chemical Engineering), Computer Science, or Operations Research), or any other data-intensive research field; OR

• Masters degree (same fields as above) along with 6+ years of work experience in research, system design/engineering, or system operations; OR

• Master's degree (same fields as above) combined with military experience in cyberspace operations or cybersecurity-related fields

• Have an interest in learning fundamentals of cybersecurity, cyberspace operations, and the implications of operating in contested cyberspace.

• Proficiency with compilation and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data

• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain technical topics to non-technical audiences.

• Availability to travel approximately 25% time.

• Successful completion of a background check is required.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.

Preferred:

• Prior military, DoW acquisition, test and evaluation, and/or assessment experience.
• Knowledgeable in cyberspace domain awareness or cybersecurity.
• Experience with software or programming languages used in research, engineering, testing, and analysis automation (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB).

Why work at IDA?

• Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation assistance;
• Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA 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 strong employee and corporate culture of work-life balance.
• Organization-wide commitment to diversity in the workplace and providing a working environment free from discrimination, by fostering a culture of active citizenship and implementing data-driven processes of continuous feedback and learning.
• Flat corporate structure that encourages collaboration and ability to choose your own projects.
• A brand-new facility located in Alexandria's high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include gym, and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
• Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

What are the next steps?

• Complete the application and submit your resume.

• The application process consists of three interviews.

• A short screening call with HR;

• A 30 min - 60 min screening call with researchers; and

• Full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving an hour presentation on a research project.

• Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:

• Transcripts (unofficial accepted);

• 3 letters of recommendation; and

• A writing sample.

We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $113,353-$277,494. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.