Emerging Threats & Deterrence Research Analyst

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) seeks a Research Analyst to conduct rigorous analysis on emerging deterrence challenges and strategic threat trends.

The role supports AF/A10 work on new technologies, adversary behaviors, and evolving strategic environments, delivering well-sourced papers and briefs to inform decision makers. The position requires a TS/SCI clearance and 4+ years in research on national security topics, with strong analytic writing and experience producing structured

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in international relations, security studies, political science, or related field.
• 4+ years of experience in research and analysis on strategic, defense, or national security topics.
• Strong analytic writing skills and experience producing structured reports and briefings.
• Active TS/SCI clearance and ability to maintain it throughout employment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct structured research on topics such as emerging nuclear and nonnuclear capabilities and strategic threat trends.
• Review open-source and classified reporting, think tank and academic work, and internal studies to build wellsourced analytic products.
• Develop research papers, briefings, and decision-support materials informing AF/A10's emerging issues and wargaming efforts.

Skills

Analytical writing

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor's degree in international relations / security studies / political science

Job description

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) seeks a Research Analyst to conduct rigorous analysis on emerging deterrence challenges and strategic threat trends.

The role supports AF/A10 work on new technologies, adversary behaviors, and evolving strategic environments, delivering well-sourced papers and briefs to inform decision makers. The position requires a TS/SCI clearance and 4+ years in research on national security topics, with strong analytic writing and experience producing structured