Research Analyst - Radar Systems Analyst

About the role

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is seeking an experienced Radar Systems Analyst to join the Science, Systems, and Sustainment Division (S3D). This role is for a radar and radio frequency (RF) systems analyst who can construct models of radar systems and assess radar performance. Your models will inform Department of War (DoW) research and development priorities, as well as assess trade-offs between radar system designs. You will participate in and eventually lead studies that evaluate radar capabilities, assess RF system performance in complex environments, and provide defensible technical recommendations to senior decision-makers.

Responsibilities

• Create technical models of radar systems and radar signal processing.
• Assess radar design trade-offs and how they propagate to overall system performance, such as detection, tracking, and discrimination capabilities.
• Model real-world RF environments (e.g., accounting for clutter, RF propagation effects, and congested/contested environments).
• Design, simulate, and evaluate common electronic attack (EA) techniques.
• Independently identify and propose research efforts that address DoW gaps and needs in radar and radio frequency systems.
• Produce well-constructed briefings and reports to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Work on an interdisciplinary team of technical analysts where creativity and initiative are encouraged.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Ph.D. in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or a closely related quantitative field with at least 3 years of relevant experience beyond Ph.D. academic work, or Master's degree in one of the above fields with at least 6 years of relevant experience beyond academic work.
• Demonstrated expertise in radar systems design, radar signal processing, or military radar operations.
• Ability to write code in C++, Python, or MATLAB.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in small, high-performing research teams.
• Strong technical communication skills.
• Successful completion of a criminal background check is required.
• Travel (domestic or international) may be required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with modeling and simulation tools (e.g., AFSIM, Simulink).
• Experience with radio frequency propagation modeling tools or electromagnetic simulation software.
• Experience with operating specific radar systems (e.g., air surveillance, fire control) and an understanding of these systems’ capabilities and limitations.
• Experience designing studies that influence operational concepts, requirements, or acquisition decisions.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance.

The Research Environment

IDA research staff work on problems that do not have predefined solutions. Successful analysts are:

• Self-directed and intellectually curious.
• Comfortable working across disciplines.
• Able to contribute to multiple concurrent studies.
• Motivated by quantitative, high-consequence analysis.

You will work with peers who value methodological rigor, independence of thought, and technical excellence.