Policy Research Associate, Tech & National Security

Center for a New American Security (CNAS); Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Center for a New American Security (CNAS) is seeking a Research Assistant/Associate to join the Technology and National Security Program in Washington, DC. This full-time role supports projects on AI sovereignty, middle power AI strategies, and U.S.

statecraft, requiring strong research, writing, and program-management skills. Ideal candidates will have policy-relevant knowledge in AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure, with a willingness to travel for field research and events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher required with strong writing abilities and attention to detail.
• Experience in national security or technology policy preferred, especially AI, cloud computing, digital infrastructure, or technology statecraft.
• Ability to travel internationally for field research and to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform in-depth research and analysis of emerging technology policy issues for the Technology and National Security Program projects.
• Organize and run roundtables, workshops, salon dinners, and field interviews with technology policy stakeholders.
• Conduct literature reviews and develop actionable policy recommendations.
• Perform international field research on AI sovereignty and related policy issues.
• Develop and manage project timelines, tasks, events, and budgets.
• Draft project proposals, grant reports, and external-facing materials.

Skills

Strong organizational skills

Excellent writing skills

Verbal and written communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher

Master’s degree in a relevant field (preferred)

Job description

Center for a New American Security (CNAS) is seeking a Research Assistant/Associate to join the Technology and National Security Program in Washington, DC. This full-time role supports projects on AI sovereignty, middle power AI strategies, and U.S.

statecraft, requiring strong research, writing, and program-management skills. Ideal candidates will have policy-relevant knowledge in AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure, with a willingness to travel for field research and events.