Research Analyst - 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 prevention; sexual assault prevention; and extremism. IDA has an opening for a social/behavioral science Research Analyst to contribute to and lead projects in the Human Capital Group.
Responsibilities:
Research Analysts are career research staff, typically with PhDs. Research Analysts 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, Research Analysts:
- Develop and implement research plans
- Develop and deploy data collection strategies (to include interviews, surveys, focus groups, 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:
- PhD in a Social/Behavioral science field (e.g., Psychology, Sociology, Organizational Behavior, Public Health, Anthropology, Political Science, Social work; or related fields) is required.
- Experience in the design and collection of social/behavioral or organizational data (i.e., surveys, interviews, focus groups) is required.
- Experience in the analysis of qualitative and quantitative data is required.
- Strong written and oral communication skills are required.
- Experience with the DoD or other branches of government is preferred (but not required).
- Ability and willingness to travel on an occasional basis is preferred (but not required).
IDA’s goal is to have its employees perform their job in the most productive work environment possible. IDA offers flexible work schedules and telework options on a case-by-case basis given the individuals satisfactory performance and position suitability.
Applicants selected will be subject to a background check.
U.S. Citizenship is required