Research Analyst - Science Policy (Entry Level PhD)

The Institute for Defense Analyses is hiring an entry-level Research Analyst for its Science and Technology Policy Institute in Washington, DC. The role involves analyzing S&T policy issues, collaborating with federal agencies, and conducting research. Candidates should have a relevant degree and skills in qualitative or quantitative research. Strong communication skills are essential, and the position emphasizes teamwork in a multidisciplinary environment.
Overview

The IDA Science and Technology Policy Institute (STPI) is a non-profit, federally funded research and development center that provides objective and independent analytical support to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and other Federal departments and agencies on science and technology (S&T) policy issues. For more information about STPI, please see https://www.ida.org/ida-ffrdcs/science-and-technology-policy-institute

STPI takes pride in the high caliber and timeliness of its analyses, which are produced in a collaborative atmosphere that encourages independent and critical thinking to achieve objective results. Work at STPI often involves multidisciplinary research in diverse teams. STPI staff work closely and regularly interact with federal sponsors.
STPI has immediate openings for an early career Research Analyst with a science, social science, or engineering background. Candidates with a strong interest in technology transfer, space, applied policy research, or social science are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities
• Work with OSTP and other Executive Offices of the President, Federal agencies, and interagency committees and staff to envision, coordinate, and evaluate national initiatives and policies related to Science & Technology (S&T)
• Determine appropriate methods to solve complex S&T policy problems, collect and analyze qualitative or quantitative data, and communicate the results of those analyses clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing, to sponsors
• Execute project tasks (e.g., conduct literature reviews, synthesize information, writing reports and other documents) under limited supervision
• May be assigned as project leader to one or more projects to assist in and provide technical direction for project planning, requirements, budgetary objectives, and assignment of responsibility and authority
• Work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
• At minimum, requires BS 8 years of experience or MS 6 years of experience or Ph.D. in a discipline appropriate for the position.
• Demonstrated skills in qualitative or quantitative research methods.
• Experience working in a collaborative environment preferred.
• Strong oral and written communications skills are essential. Experience communicating and writing about science and technology policy preferred.
• Ability to apply technical and analytical skills to a broad portfolio of science and technology policy issues preferred.

About IDA

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a private, nonprofit corporation headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, just outside Washington, DC. IDA's mission is to answer the most challenging U.S. security and science policy questions with objective analysis leveraging extraordinary scientific, technical, and analytic expertise.

IDA embraces diversity and supports an inclusive work environment. Working here requires energy, commitment, flexibility, and teamwork. Whether you're a graduate student ready to start your career, a professional looking for your next challenge, or a member of the military hoping to transition to the private sector while continuing to make a difference in the national security of your country, we offer exciting opportunities to learn and grow.

Sponsors rely on IDA for dispassionate, fact-based, and scientifically rigorous research and advice performed in a research environment free of commercial or shareholder interests where objectivity and the public interest are foremost. The work produced by IDA is characterized by unquestioned objectivity and high quality. Because of our unique relationship with our U.S. Government sponsors, IDA enjoys unusual access to classified government information and sensitive corporate proprietary information.

Why work at IDA?

IDA, as a non-profit, 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.

IDA offers the following benefits and resources to their employees:
• 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; 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 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 and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
• Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $325/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

Compensation

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 $112,924-$263,335. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.