Research Analyst – Military Campaign Modeler – Entry-Level PhD

Overview

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) has an immediate opening in the Science, Systems, and Sustainment Division (S3D) for a Research Analyst. The ideal candidate is an experienced researcher with an eagerness to learn how to conduct modeling and simulation analysis of large-scale military operations to assess the benefits and limitations of weapons systems, tactics and other warfighting issues.

Research Analysts are responsible for contributing to scientifically sound research and providing technical review for others’ research products. IDA addresses diverse and ever-changing topics. Research Analysts are expected to be adaptable, self-motivated, and committed to life-long learning; capable of working independently or as a member of an interdisciplinary research team; and able to work multiple projects concurrently.

Responsibilities

Specific research-related activities expected of this position include:

• Work collaboratively with an integrated team of analysts using the Synthetic Theater Operations Model (STORM) and other analytic tools executing campaign- and mission-level simulations supporting quantitative and qualitative analysis of combat operations.  
• Employ statistical analysis and data processing methods to interpret and analyze large simulation output datasets, identify significant model behaviors, and communicate key insights to decision-makers.
• Work independently and collaboratively on analyses supporting operational plan development, system trade-off studies, operational risk assessments, and other military service-specific studies.
• Produce high-quality reports and presentations summarizing analytic results.

Qualifications
 

• Education:
  • PhD in Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, Systems Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field of science, technology, or research; OR
  • Masters in Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, Systems Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field of science, technology, or research in with 8+ years of experience.
• Experience using modeling tools with ability to learn Synthetic Theater Operations Research Model (STORM), the Advance Framework for Simulation, Integration and Modeling (AFSIM), the Joint Conflict and Tactical Simulation (JCATS), or other combat modeling tools.
• Practical experience using computer languages and data analysis tools such as R, Python, SQL, C++, and Visual Basic.
• A demonstrated record of research accomplishments in the field of study.
• A demonstrated ability to develop analytic methodologies, collect and process data, execute basic experimental designs, statistically analyze simulation output data, and summarize significant analytic insights.
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, particularly the ability to communicate technical information to technical and non-technical audiences. 
• Significant interest in Department of Defense issues, military operations, and related subjects. 
• Experience using Linux operating systems is a plus.
• Successful completion of a criminal background check is required.
• Travel (domestic or international) may be required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS level security clearance.   
   

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 11% 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;
• A brand-new facility located in Alexandria’s high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities