Information Scientist (Applied Technology Policy)

RAND • Pittsburgh, DC

47d • Hybrid

About The Position

Information Scientists at RAND apply their analytical and technical expertise to examine complex policy problems by developing innovative research approaches such as modeling and simulation and novel artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled tools. They execute this research using a broad range of analytically rigorous quantitative and qualitative research tools, methods, and skills. They interpret research results to support stakeholder decision-making and communicate research results to policymakers and the public at all levels through written products and oral presentations. They also contribute to business development efforts.

Requirements

• Demonstrated technical or methodological skills, and/or domain knowledge in the technical design, development, testing, application, and/or operation of information, communications, space, automation, or AI/machine learning systems.
• Excellent analytic skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Strong commitment to RAND's core values of quality and objectivity.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.
• U.S. citizenship is required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.
• A PhD, MS, or BS in computer science or engineering, information science, cyberengineering, robotics, or related field (such as mathematics, operations research, physical sciences, or closely related discipline) is required.
• Applicants with a masters degree must have at least 5 years of professional experience.
• Applicants with a bachelors degree must have at least 10 years of professional experience.
• Professional experience should demonstrate the applicant’s ability to design, execute and disseminate results of research using analytically rigorous methods.
• A writing sample of 3 pages or more is required when applying for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with components of the Department of War is highly desired.
• Professional or academic experience with a focus on the technical design, development, testing, application, and/or operation of engineered systems are preferred.
• Successful applicants will be able to present strong evidence of research experience, demonstrated through authorship of academic publications, conference presentations, or prior professional reports.
• They will also be versatile with multiple research methods.
• A PhD with at least 2 years of relevant professional experience is preferred.
• Candidates with an active U.S. security clearance are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Examine complex policy problems by developing innovative research approaches such as modeling and simulation and novel artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled tools.
• Execute this research using a broad range of analytically rigorous quantitative and qualitative research tools, methods, and skills.
• Interpret research results to support stakeholder decision-making.
• Communicate research results to policymakers and the public at all levels through written products and oral presentations.
• Contribute to business development efforts.

Benefits

• health insurance coverage
• life and disability insurance
• savings plan
• paid time-off
• RAND’s sabbatic pay (which provides additional compensation above base pay when vacation is taken)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level