RESEARCH FELLOW

US National Defense University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 95,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

US National Defense University seeks a Research Fellow for Autonomous Systems to advance DoD policy-relevant research and educate leaders in national security decision-making.

The role emphasizes publishing in peer‑reviewed venues, collaborating with DoD labs and industry, and presenting findings to senior DoD and industry executives. A Top Secret clearance is preferred.

Qualifications

• Doctorate, ABD, or terminal degree in aerospace/engineering, CS, robotics or OR.
• Five+ years in autonomous systems R&D may substitute for the degree.
• Peer-reviewed publications in autonomous systems and defense policy.
• Experience presenting to DoD leaders and industry executives.

Responsibilities

• Present research findings and implications for U.S. national security to senior DoD and industry audiences.
• Lead multidiscipline research studies and coordinate related teams.
• Engage with DoW programs in unmanned systems and related tech areas.

Skills

Research experience

Policy analysis

Public speaking

Education

Doctorate/ABD

Regionally accredited terminal degree

Job description

National Defense University (NDU) supports the joint warfighter by providing rigorous Joint Professional Military Education to members of the U.S. Armed Forces and select others in order to develop leaders who have the ability to operate and creatively think in an unpredictable and complex world.

This is a Title 10 Excepted Service Appointment. Appointment is not to exceed 2 years with the possibility for extension.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Required qualifications for the Research Fellow for Autonomous Systems and the U.S. Defense Industrial Base:

Education:

Doctorate, all-but-dissertation status (ABD), or a terminal degree from a regionally accredited university (or international equivalents) in an appropriate broad discipline such as aerospace engineering, electrical or mechanical engineering, systems engineering, computer science, robotics, or operations research; interdisciplinary backgrounds that integrate engineering with national security, public policy, or industrial systems are strongly encouraged. Five or more years professional experience in a relevant industry/industry position, especially if it is related to autonomous systems' research and development, may be considered in lieu of the terminal degree requirements.

Research & Publications:

Record of high-quality, peer-reviewed, journal articles, books, policy papers and/or industry reports related to autonomous systems, as well as implications for the U.S. defense industrial base and defense policy. Demonstrated knowledge of research methodologies, including the ability to identify, acquire, and analyze primary and secondary sources of information pertaining to defense strategy and policy. Preference will be given to candidates with a demonstrated ability to execute complex, multidiscipline, research studies and/or lead multidiscipline research teams.

Engagement:

Experience presenting research findings and their implications for U.S. national security to DoW senior leaders, other federal government audiences, and industry executives. Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate that their research has had an impact on U.S. national security strategy and policy.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Desired qualifications for the Research Fellow for Autonomous Systems are as follows:

• Experience conducting research directly for, or in support of, DoW, particularly as part of the DoW-wide research labs or federally funded research and development centers.
• Experience working in, with and/or to coordinate industrial enterprises with key areas of DoW programs in unmanned vehicular systems and/or related technological areas.
• Experience in teaching graduate-level courses in relevant areas involving international affairs, national security policy and decision-making.
• Current Top Secret Security Clearance.

Volunteer Experience:

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills, and can provide valuable training and experience that translates to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.