Research Analyst – Naval Warfare - Entry Level PhD

About the role

The Operational Evaluation Division (OED) has an immediate career opening for an Analyst supporting the Department of War's assessments of the operational effectiveness and suitability of naval warfare systems. The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non‑profit corporation that operates three federally funded research and development centers to provide objective analyses of national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise. IDA research staff conduct multi‑disciplinary analyses in an environment that encourages rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues. IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package.

Responsibilities

• Support and advise mid‑ and senior‑level civilian and military officials regarding the operational test and evaluation of Major Defense Acquisition Programs.
• Provide analytical support to the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) regarding the testing and evaluation of submarines, ships, combat systems and missile systems.
• Analyze the design, execution, and results of operational testing and provide an independent assessment to OSD’s Director, Operational Test and Evaluation.
• Maintain close interaction with government officials responsible for the planning, development, and execution of at‑sea tests and modeling and simulation runs.
• Travel is required (up to 25%).

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required.
• Successful completion of a background check is required.

Qualifications

• PhD or 8+ years experience and a master’s degree in Operations Research, Material Science, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, National Security, or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus.
• Relevant work experience compiling and analyzing quantitative data.
• Experience with Python, R and AI (LLMs, Machine Learning, Agentic AI etc.).
• Prior‑military, DoD acquisition, or test and evaluation experience is a plus.

Skills

• Proficiency in Python, R, and AI techniques including LLMs, machine learning, and agentic AI.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance options.
• Generous 10% contribution to retirement after six months of service.
• Maternity/paternity leave.
• 20 days paid time off (plus 10 paid holidays).
• Relocation reimbursement.
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL).
• Professional development: tuition reimbursement, internal/external training, funding for researcher‑pitched projects and publications.
• Work‑life balance: commitment to average 40‑hour work weeks, communication only during core business hours.
• Diversity and inclusion initiatives, active citizenship culture, data‑driven feedback processes.
• Flat corporate structure encouraging collaboration and self‑directed projects.
• Brand‑new facility in Alexandria’s high‑tech corridor (Potomac Yard) with cafeteria, gym, nearby dining and shopping.
• Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop.
• Employer contributes up to $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

Pay

Estimated salary range: $113,353 – $277,494.

Schedule

Expectation of an average 40‑hour work week with communication limited to core business hours; up to 25% travel required.