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 two-year, term-limited position that will principally support a project exploring cybersecurity threats from advances in quantum computing. Strong administrative, program management, and communications 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. technological competitiveness and policy. Policy-relevant knowledge and experience in quantum information sciences, cybersecurity, tabletop exercise development and execution, critical infrastructure, and national security is a plus. This is not an area studies position.

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 strong verbal and written communication with internal and external stakeholders, as well as administrative, event, and project management skills. An ability to manage complex administrative tasks with diligent attention to detail is critical. A successful Research Assistant/Associate is creative, proactive, organized, detail-oriented, and able to tackle a range of tasks at one 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.

PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT

• Develop and manage project timelines, tasks, events, and budgets.
• 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.

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, tabletop exercises, workshops, and interviews to engage with technology policy stakeholders.
• Conduct literature reviews.
• Develop actionable policy recommendations.
• Communicate research and recommendations through written and verbal products, such as op-eds, public events, and engagement with journalists.
• Occasional travel, both domestic and international, for in-person research engagements to support ongoing research efforts.

WRITING

• 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.
• Publish op-eds, journal articles, or short analyses such as commentaries and blog entries in external outlets, driven by the news cycle.
• Co-author/author CNAS papers and reports.

PUBLICATION MANAGEMENT

• Edit CNAS papers and reports for substance, style, and layout.
• Manage team publication schedules and deadlines.
• Coordinate with outside authors as needed.
• 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 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.
  • Executing event communications plans using Zoom, Slack, and Microsoft Teams.
  • Coordinating with external speakers and their staff.
• Manage event budgets.
• Manage program contact lists.

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS

• Schedule meetings and events, including support for Program Director's scheduling.
• Create meeting agendas, take notes, and track associated tasks.
• Arrange business travel and accommodations.
• Compile expense reports.
• Maintain program website and project content.

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 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, cogent style and diligent fact checking.
• An ability to learn quickly and work collaboratively in a fast-paced and fluid environment.
• Willingness to support the Technology and National Security Program through administrative work.
• Discretion, especially with regards to judging the quality of data and competing information sources.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
• Strong multitasking and time management skills, as well as an ability to juggle multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Computer competency including, but not limited to, Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), Slack, and Zoom.
• Collegial and ethical professionalism committed to finding solutions and working collaboratively.
• 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 defense issues.
• Experience researching, analyzing, and writing on science and technology topics, especially quantum technology and/or cybersecurity.
• 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.