Research Associate - Intelligence & Security (GDI)
Institute for Defense Analyses
Alexandria, VA
Overview The Institute for Defense Analyses’ (IDA) Global Dynamics and Intelligence (GDI) Division is seeking an analyst with experience in, and knowledge of, the national security and intelligence communities to conduct independent and objective research for government sponsors. The incumbent will study and analyze national security issues and related national challenges, with a potential emphasis on the policy and programmatic aspects of national security and intelligence. Under supervision, this position conducts qualitative and quantitative research, assisting and supporting work activities of more experienced research staff and other professional staff. Responsibilities Researches, analyzes, and evaluates issues of interest to the Department of War and U.S. Intelligence Community based on provided parameters, guidelines, and/or specifications of the project. Individually or as a member of a research team, contributes to the writing of project reports or papers. Completes research, analyses, and programming tasks. Develops draft reports on research findings and preliminary analyses. Conducts reviews and searches of printed literature and databases, including government databases; develops and maintains information sources and contacts; summarizes and documents research findings, and other information. Maintains project files, databases, bibliographic, and statistical data. Maintain awareness of, and potentially contributes to, cross-divisional intelligence-related projects in conjunction with other IDA divisions. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications Experience
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 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 transitioning to the private sector, IDA offers exciting opportunities to learn and grow while contributing to U.S. national security. Sponsors rely on IDA for dispassionate, fact-based, and rigorous high-quality research and advice that emphasize objectivity and the public interest. IDA’s status as an FFRDC facilitates strong partnerships with our U.S. Government sponsors and provides IDA trusted 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:
- Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of two (2) years of relevant professional experience. Preference will be given to candidates holding advanced degrees.
- Candidates must have U.S. citizenship and an active Top-Secret clearance with recent SCI Access (within the last six months/current SSBI). Candidates who do not meet this requirement will not be considered.
- Prior government or military service in positions related to DOW or intelligence issues is highly desired.
- Possess strong research, analytical, and communication skills and the ability to fuse information into clear and concise conclusions and recommendations. Candidates will be asked to provide a writing sample demonstrating research and writing skills.
- Demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to contribute effectively to a team approach to problem solving.
- Ability to work in an unstructured environment and on more than one project concurrently.
- Have an understanding of national security and national intelligence. Experience in one or more of the following intelligence and national security disciplines is required:
- All source analysis in military, regional, or scientific and technical areas.
- Development of intelligence tools and tradecraft for SIGINT, GEOINT, MASINT, HUMINT, or OSINT disciplines.
- Collection management for DOW and national systems.
- Intelligence processing, exploitation and dissemination.
- Analysis of intelligence requirements and development of solutions.
- Support to joint operations through the joint planning process, including development of detailed Functional Support Plans and National Intelligence Support Plans
- Planning, programming, budgeting and execution of Military Intelligence Program or National Intelligence Program resources.
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 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 transitioning to the private sector, IDA offers exciting opportunities to learn and grow while contributing to U.S. national security. Sponsors rely on IDA for dispassionate, fact-based, and rigorous high-quality research and advice that emphasize objectivity and the public interest. IDA’s status as an FFRDC facilitates strong partnerships with our U.S. Government sponsors and provides IDA trusted 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
- Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) due to IDA's non-profit status.
- Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external trainings, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications.
- A strong employee and corporate work-life balance, including options for flex time.
- A brand-new facility located in Alexandria’s high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; and close proximity to local dining and shopping.
- Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $315/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.
Posted 2026-01-08
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