Research Associate - Department of Homeland Security

Overview

The Science, Systems, and Sustainment Division (S3D) has an immediate opening for a Research Associate to support the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in the analyses of the suitability and effectiveness of counter-terrorism products and services. IDA takes great pride in the high caliber and timeliness of its analyses, which are produced in an atmosphere that encourages independent thinking and objective results. Work at IDA is conducted in a team environment and relies on multi-disciplinary approaches.

Responsibilities

The selected candidate will be responsible for various analytic functions, including interpreting the scope and impact of a broad spectrum of counter-terrorism technologies; defining problems and determining appropriate solution approaches through independent research; selecting modeling or analytical tools to support those approaches; and interpreting results and communicating findings (using both written and verbal means). Some research tasks will be narrowly focused, while others will address an array of interrelated technical topics - all will require a developed understanding of emergency response, public health, or public safety concepts; security operations and multi-agency coordination challenges; and product- and service-based security and safety technologies.

Qualifications

• Candidate must meet the following education/experience requirements:
  • A minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Research Science, Research Psychology, Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering (Civil, Computer, Mechanical, Nuclear), Physics, or Operations Research coupled with 3 + years of relevant work experience (via industry, research fellowships, or internships).
• Demonstrated ability to identify sources for, assemble, and organize large, complex data sets for subsequent quantitative and qualitative analyses is desired.
• Experience with Python is desired.
• Demonstrated ability as a contributor of independent research elements to a multi-disciplinary collaboration is also desired.
• Experience in preparing formal reports, publications, or proposals, and presenting the resultant information verbally in a professional setting is a plus.
• Experience in operational security, homeland or national security applications, emergency management, or critical infrastructure protection is a plus.
• Successful completion of a background check is required.

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.

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
• In person interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving a presentation on a research project.

Prior to the 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 $67,335 - $190,249 Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.