Design Research Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

The Center for a New American Security (CNAS) seeks to hire a Research Assistant/Associate to join the Technology and National Security Program. This is a full-time position based in Washington, D.C. and will principally support a project exploring global trends in AI sovereignty, middle power AI strategies, and their implications for U.S. statecraft. Strong administrative, program management, writing, and research skills are required. Ideal candidates will have experience in research and policy development at the intersection of technology and national security and an interest in U.S. AI competitiveness and policy. Policy-relevant knowledge and experience in AI, cloud computing, digital infrastructure, and technology statecraft is preferred.

Candidates should be self-starters comfortable working as part of a small, close-knit team in a fast-paced and fluid work environment. This position requires excellent administrative, event, project management, and research skills, along with strong verbal and written communication with internal and external stakeholders. An ability to manage complex administrative tasks with diligent attention to detail is critical. A successful Research Assistant/Associate is proactive, organized, detail-oriented, and able to tackle a range of tasks at a time.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Research Assistant/Associate will be expected to perform a variety of tasks outlined below. The following is an overview of primary responsibilities. Other tasks may be required, and responsibilities will vary over time.

RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS

• Perform in-depth research and analysis of emerging technology policy issues for Technology and National Security Program projects and in anticipation of new ones.
• Organize and run roundtables, workshops, salon dinners, and field interviews to engage with technology policy stakeholders.
• Conduct literature reviews.
• Develop actionable policy recommendations.
• Perform international field research on AI sovereignty and emerging technology policy issues.

PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ADMINISTRATION

• Develop and manage project timelines, tasks, events, and budgets.
• Create meeting agendas, take notes, and track associated tasks.
• Develop detailed itineraries for international field research, including in middle- and low-income markets.
• Schedule meetings and events.
• Liaise with the Center's development team to manage contact lists and support donor engagement.
• Manage the Technology and National Security Program's communications, such as project web pages, email campaigns, and official social media.

WRITING

• Co-author/author CNAS papers and reports.
• Publish op-eds, journal articles, or short analyses such as commentaries and blog entries in external outlets, driven by the news cycle.
• Communicate research and recommendations through written and verbal products, such as op-eds, public events, and engagement with journalists.
• Draft project proposals and grant applications in coordination with Center staff.
• Draft interim and final grant reports.
• Draft project and event descriptions for external-facing materials such as the CNAS website.

PUBLICATION MANAGEMENT

• Manage team publication schedules and deadlines.
• Edit CNAS papers and reports for substance, style, and layout.
• Collaborate with Center staff to develop compelling graphics, data visualizations, and other methods of content delivery.
• Develop strategies to help promote the Technology Program's research among target audiences.

EVENT MANAGEMENT

• Support program efforts to design and execute impactful events that generate fresh thinking on relevant policy areas, including:
  • Formulating event agendas, including themes and speakers.
  • Overseeing event logistics, such as venues, catering, invitations, and RSVPs.
  • Coordinating with external speakers and their staff.
• Manage event budgets.
• Manage program contact lists.

INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Participate in intern and job vacancy interviews, employee orientation, and other personnel processes.
• Attend internal meetings and represent CNAS at outside events.
• Mentor colleagues and future security leaders both formally and informally.
• Assist in networking, messaging, and outreach about CNAS, the Technology and National Security Program, and its products.
• Attend and staff CNAS events and activities as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Required

• Bachelor's degree or higher.
• Exceptional organizational skills and initiative. Strong attention to detail is a must.
• Demonstrated interest in national security issues, particularly applications of AI and other emerging technologies.
• General familiarity with U.S. technology policy, processes, and agencies, especially as they intersect with national security.
• Excellent writing skills, including a clear, direct style and diligent fact checking.
• An ability to learn quickly and work collaboratively in a fast-paced and fluid environment.
• An ability to travel internationally for regular field research, including in low- and middle-income countries.
• Willingness to support the Technology and National Security Program through administrative work.
• Discretion, especially in judging the quality of data and competing information sources.
• Strong multitasking and time management skills, as well as an ability to juggle multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Collegial and ethical professionalism committed to finding solutions and working collaboratively.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
• Legal right to work in the United States.
• Based in Washington, D.C. or willing to relocate upon job offer.

Preferred

• Master's degree in a relevant area of study.
• Experience researching, analyzing, and writing on national security and technology topics, especially AI, cloud computing, digital infrastructure, and technology statecraft.
• Demonstrated ability to translate technical concepts in AI, emerging technologies, and national security into policymaker-friendly language.
• Demonstrated ability to use emerging tools, including AI, to improve workflows and business processes as needed.
• Project management experience.
• 2+ years of full-time relevant work experience (required for Research Associate applicants).

ABOUT THE TECHNOLOGY AND NATIONAL SECURITY PROGRAM

The Technology and National Security Program produces cutting-edge research and recommendations to help U.S. and allied policymakers responsibly win and manage the great power competition with China over critical and emerging technologies. The program focuses on high-impact technology areas with in-depth, evidence-based analysis to assess U.S. leadership vis-a-vis China, anticipate technology-related risks to security and democratic values, and outline bold but actionable steps for the United States and its allies to lead in responsible technology development, adoption, and governance. A key focus of the Tech Program is convening the technology and policy communities to bridge gaps, exchange perspectives, and together develop solutions.

ABOUT CNAS

The Center for a New American Security develops bold, innovative, and bipartisan national security and defense policies that promote and protect American interests and values. Building on the deep expertise and broad experience of its staff and advisors, CNAS engages policymakers, experts, and the public with innovative fact-based research, ideas, and analysis to shape and elevate the national security debate. As an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit research organization, CNAS leads efforts to help inform and prepare the national security leaders of today and tomorrow. CNAS is located in Washington, D.C.

CNAS is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

CNAS offers a complete and competitive benefits package for employees which includes medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, 403(b) retirement accounts, transportation subsidies, and an employee assistance program.

TO APPLY

CNAS is accepting online applications only.

A complete application will include a cover letter explaining the candidate's interest in and qualifications for the position, together with a resume or CV. Additional application materials and professional references may be requested.

While we understand the value of AI tools for increasing productivity, pleasedo not use any AI tools to generate, rewrite, or revise your application materials. Your application materials must authentically represent your own voice, skills, and communication style.