Research Assistant / Research Associate, Technology and National Security Program

Full Time

The Center for a New American Security (CNAS) seeks to hire a Research Assistant / Research Associate to support its Technology and National Security Program. Candidates with a demonstrated interest in AI policy and compute governance are strongly encouraged to apply. The position is a three-year appointment and will support a Senior Fellow researching compute governance.

Candidates should be self-starters and strong writers who are comfortable working as part of a small, close-knit team in a fast-paced and fluid work environment. An ability to manage complex research, writing, and administrative tasks with diligent attention to detail is critical.

Responsibilities

The employee will be expected to perform a variety of tasks outlined below. Other tasks may be required, and responsibilities will vary over time.

RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS

  • Serve as lead research assistant / research associate for a three-year project on compute governance. The project seeks to better understand and shape opportunities to leverage compute for AI governance, including identifying which government policies, private sector actions, and/or technological developments would increase or decrease the utility of compute policy in the future. The project is part of a Center-wide initiative on AI security and stability.
  • Conduct literature reviews and in-depth research, maintain current knowledge of developments in relevant policy areas domestically and internationally, assist with citations, and identify new areas for further research and analysis.
  • Participate in research engagements with external experts and practitioners, including non-resident adjunct fellows.
  • Travel domestically and internationally for in-person research engagements as needed to support ongoing projects.

WRITING

  • Co-author/author in-depth CNAS research papers and reports.
  • Publish op-eds, journal articles, or short analyses, such as commentaries, in external outlets.

PUBLICATION MANAGEMENT

  • Edit CNAS papers and reports for substance, style, and layout.
  • Manage publication schedules and deadlines.
  • Coordinate with outside authors and reviewers.
  • Collaborate with Center staff to develop compelling graphics and data visualizations.
  • Help promote research among target audiences.

DONOR ENGAGEMENT

  • Generate and manage project budgets in conjunction with Center staff.
  • Engage with donors and sponsors and support the Program Director’s engagement.
  • Write interim and final grant reports.

EVENT DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT

  • Help design high-impact events that generate fresh thinking on relevant policy areas:
    • Formulate event agendas, including themes and speakers.
    • Oversee event logistics, such as venues, catering, invitations, and RSVPs.
    • Execute event communications plans using Zoom, Slack, and Microsoft Teams.
    • Coordinate with external speakers and their staffs.
  • Manage event budgets.
  • Manage program contact lists.

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS

  • Schedule meetings and events.
  • Create meeting agendas, take notes, and track associated tasks.
  • Arrange business travel and accommodations.
  • Compile expense reports.
  • Maintain program website and project content.
  • Support program management.

INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Participate in interviews and other personnel processes.
  • Attend internal meetings and represent CNAS at outside events.
  • Mentor colleagues.
  • 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

Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher.
  • Demonstrated interest in researching, analyzing, and writing on technology and national security, with a focus on AI.
  • Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent and efficient writing skills, including diligent self-editing and fact checking.
  • Strong multitasking and time management skills, as well as an ability to juggle multiple projects and competing priorities.
  • An ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced and fluid environment.
  • Willingness to support the Technology and National Security Program through administrative work.
  • Good judgment, especially regarding the quality of data and competing information sources.
  • Willingness to maintain confidentiality.
  • Computer competency including, but not limited to, Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), Slack, and Zoom.
  • Legal right to work in the United States.
  • Based in Washington, DC or willing to relocate upon job offer.

Preferred:

  • Science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or technical analytic education and/or work experience.
  • Familiarity with some aspects of AI compute infrastructure and/or policy (e.g. AI hardware, AI chip specifications, semiconductor supply chains, AI datacenters, AI model training, AI energy use, China’s semiconductor ecosystem, export controls).
  • Master’s degree in a relevant area of study (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, political science, international relations, security studies, economics, public policy ).
  • Experience researching, analyzing, and writing on AI policy and compute governance.
  • Two to three years of relevant work experience (required for research associates).

About the Technology and National Security Program

The Technology and National Security Program focuses on high-impact technology areas with in-depth, evidence-based analysis to assess U.S. leadership vis-à-vis China, anticipate technology-related risks to national 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 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, DC.

CNAS is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an 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.

CNAS abides by all Federal and District of Columbia employment laws.

To Apply

CNAS is accepting online applications only. Apply online using this link:

https://cnas.bamboohr.com/careers/125

A complete application will include a cover letter explaining the candidate’s interest in and qualifications for

the position, together with a résumé or CV. Additional application materials and professional references

may be requested.