Research Associate – Model Systems Engineering

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This position is part of IDA’s Operational Evaluation Division (OED), located in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, D.C. IDA is a non-profit, federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) that delivers objective, rigorous analysis on the nation’s toughest national security, technology, and science policy challenges. Our work is team-based, multi-disciplinary, and deeply impactful to national defense.

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) seeks a Research Associate with experience in digital engineering and model-based systems engineering to advance and apply methods that support the test and evaluation (T&E) of U.S. defense systems. You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to both methodological innovation and the application of cutting‑edge techniques to real‑world programs, including emerging areas such as AI‑enabled systems.

• Advance methods for applying digital engineering and model‑based approaches to T&E artifacts, processes, and assurance cases.
• Develop, analyze, and apply digital engineering models and frameworks to inform T&E decision‑making.
• Develop and maintain reference architectures within an MBSE environment integrating test plans, reports, and system requirements to assess system maturity and performance.
• Collaborate across the test and evaluation enterprise to develop visualizations and metrics that communicate system maturity and performance trends.
• Plan, design, observe, and analyze operational testing of military systems to evaluate whether they meet end‑user mission needs.
• Develop firsthand knowledge of systems by participating in Department‑wide working groups, attending test events, and analyzing results.
• Conduct independent, in‑depth analyses of test results to assess effectiveness, suitability, and survivability of systems against realistic threats.
• Work independently and in small teams to advocate for adequate testing, ensuring that military systems are safe, effective, and suitable.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams of engineers, scientists, statisticians, and human factors experts.
• Engage with sponsors to understand their needs and deliver timely, relevant, and actionable research.
• Communicate results clearly through written reports, briefings, and discussions with colleagues, sponsors, and stakeholders.

• Master’s degree with at least 2 years of relevant experience or a BS with at least 4 years of relevant experience in a STEM field (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, Systems Engineering, Digital Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Statistics, IT, Computer Science, or Operations Research).
• Knowledge of digital engineering concepts, including model‑based systems engineering approaches and tools (e.g., SysML, digital twins, digital threads).
• Demonstrated experience with MBSE principles and tools, including proficiency in SysML and Cameo Systems Modeler/Magic Draw.
• Demonstrated experience with systems simulation tools (e.g. MATLAB/Simulink, STK, AFSIM).
• Strong conceptual and analytical skills with demonstrated ability to conduct independent research.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Ability to thrive in cross‑functional teams.
• Availability to travel up to 25%.
• Successful completion of a background check and ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.

• Prior military, DoW acquisition, Industry, and/or T&E experience.
• Familiarity with T&E of defense systems (operational or developmental).
• Knowledge of assurance cases or digital assurance frameworks.
• Industry experience applying digital engineering or model‑based methods.
• Experience collaborating with government sponsors or stakeholders.

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