Research Analyst - Mixed Methods Social/Behavioral Scientist
Overview
The Institute for Defense Analyses is a federally funded research and development center supporting the Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal agencies that require rigorous and objective analysis. Researchers in IDA’s Human Capital Group support senior defense leaders by applying qualitative and quantitative methods from psychology, sociology, public health, political science, economics, statistics, and data science to a broad range of national security policy issues. Past and current IDA research examines: diversity, equity, and inclusion; unit cohesion and command climate; performance, promotion, and retention; hazing and bullying; suicide; sexual assault; and extremism. IDA has an opening for a PhD-level social/behavioral scientist to contribute to and lead projects in the Human Capital Group.
Responsibilities
IDA’s Research Staff Members (RSMs) are career research staff, typically with PhDs. RSMs work on interdisciplinary research teams and engage with senior U.S. government officials to develop research programs to inform government policy and decision-making. After defining a research question, RSMs:
- Develop and implement research plans
- Develop and deploy data collection strategies (to include interviews, focus groups, surveys, and literature reviews)
- Analyze qualitative and quantitative data
- Draft reports and briefings on research results
- Communicate effectively with research sponsors and team members
- Lead interdisciplinary project teams and direct/mentor junior research staff
- Manage project budgets and timelines
- Adapt to a wide range of complex and evolving research questions
- Exercise independent thought, sound judgement, critical thinking, and creativity
- Occasionally travel to U.S. government or U.S. security partner locations
Qualifications
- At minimum, requires BS+10 years of experience or MS+8 years of experience or Ph.D. in a Social/Behavioral science field (e.g., Psychology, Sociology, Organizational Behavior, Public Health, Anthropology, Political Science, Social work; or related fields).
- Experience in the design of data collection tools and collection of social/behavioral data through interviews and focus groups is required.
- Experience in the analysis of qualitative data is required.
- Strong written and oral communication skills are required.
- U.S. citizenship is required.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required.
- Experience with the DoD or other branches of government is strongly preferred
- Ability and willingness to travel on an occasional basis is preferred.
Why work at IDA?
- Competitive salary and benefits, including diverse health insurance options, generous 11% contribution to retirement, 6 weeks 100% paid parental leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement.
- Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our Nation’s warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL).
- 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.
- 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, including commitment to average 40-hour work weeks through flex time, telework options, and expectation of communication only during core business hours.
- Located in Alexandria's high-tech corridor, IDA's brand new Potomac Yard facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, workspaces and amenities, including a cafeteria, grab-n-go cafe and gym.
- Easy access to local dining and shopping, the Potomac Yard Metro stop (opening Fall 2022), and the Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $280/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.
What are the next steps?
- Complete the application and submit your resume
- If you are selected to move forward in the interview process, the interview consists of three steps:
- A short screening call with HR
- A 30 min – 60 min screening call with researchers
- A 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 the following:
- Transcripts (unofficial accepted), if less than 7 years post-degree
- 3 professional or academic references
- A writing sample
U.S. Citizenship is required