Associate Research Analyst (Cybersecurity Researcher)

$100,000 - $140,000/Yr

Cna - Arlington, VA

Full-time - Entry Level

Arlington, VA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

CNA is currently seeking an Associate Research Analyst for our Enterprise Systems and Data Analysis (ESDA) division in our Institute for Public Research. This role is pivotal in researching cybersecurity techniques, industry and government trends, and evaluating the information security needs to support the integration of emerging technologies, such as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), into the National Airspace System in a safe, efficient, and secure manner. The successful candidate will align recommendations with industry cybersecurity best practices and government policies, evaluate concepts and use cases, and collaborate with subject matter experts and stakeholders to define security requirements for future system designs. Additionally, the role may involve supporting the design, use case, and technical specifications for novel artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) applications to facilitate the integration of new entrants in aviation. The Associate Research Analyst will play a crucial role in standardizing the approach to identity and access management of aviation systems. This includes working with program stakeholders to evaluate system needs and integrate security into a harmonized concept. The candidate will also assess cybersecurity-focused analytic methods, AI/ML system design, and best practices, assisting government partners in evaluating AI/ML technologies used in aviation. The position requires conducting research and analysis that meets CNA's quality standards on focused, structured questions, applying standard analytic methodologies, and producing logical, traceable, objective, and unbiased analysis with minimal supervision. CNA fosters an inclusive culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Our flexible and engaging work environment encourages iterative and creative collaboration at every stage of the problem-solving process. We are looking for creative and innovative individuals to help carry out our mission, and the location of this position is flexible, allowing for either remote or onsite work.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and analysis that meets CNA's quality standards on focused, structured questions.
• Apply standard, routine, and well-established analytic methodologies with minimal direction.
• Develop institutional knowledge of primary clients/sponsors, their culture, organization, and issues.
• Contribute productively and harmoniously to the work of others, treating everyone respectfully and professionally.
• Support business development efforts and/or marketing activities by conducting background research and preparing materials under the direction of more experienced staff.
• Engage in limited interaction with sponsors/clients and their study points of contact under supervision.
• Demonstrate effective communication skills, both written and oral, and present work to colleagues and managers.
• Work under close supervision on focused, well-structured pieces of projects.
• Exhibit a positive attitude in interactions with colleagues and clients/sponsors.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Education: Minimum Master's degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience.
• Experience: Typical minimum requirements include a Master's degree and 0+ years of experience in research and analysis.
• Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office; database management; good interpersonal and oral and written communication skills; strong critical thinking and organizational skills; knowledge of research techniques.
• Ability to make significant contributions to projects/analyses; strong analytic curiosity/creativity; ability to operate independently in the execution of assignments; ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity techniques; knowledge of and experience with system development, software assurance, and systems engineering practices; strong planning and organizational skills; excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills; ability to interact positively and somewhat independently with clients.

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge of FAA and international aviation domain, information technology policies, unmanned aircraft systems operations preferred.
• Cybersecurity certifications, such as CompTIA Security+ preferred.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an Active Secret Security Clearance.

Benefits

• Flexible work environment (remote or onsite)
• Competitive salary range of $100K - $140K
• Comprehensive health benefits
• Retirement savings plan
• Professional development opportunities
• Paid time off and holidays