Research Scientist (China Studies Program)

About the position

CNA's China and Indo Pacific Affairs (CIP) division is looking for a Research Scientist to be part of their China Studies Program team. We are looking for candidates that have professional level Mandarin language capabilities and who specialize in China studies, to work on projects that focus on military and security issues related the People's Republic of China (PRC). Staff at this level will typically be lead smaller and/or less complex projects, play a critical role as a team member on projects with specific technical/scientific expertise, operate as a field rep and produces high quality analysis focused on PRC military and security issues, to include work on the political, military, diplomatic, economic, technological, informational, nuclear, space, and cyber domains. The CIP division supports the Navy and Marine Corps, as well as other DOD sponsors by providing timely, data-based analyses on a wide range of security issues across the Indo-Pacific region, providing decision-makers the context they need to make informed choices and plans. 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. Our employees are committed to helping clients develop effective solutions to better manage their programs through scientific, data-driven approaches. We are looking for creative and innovative individuals to help carry out our mission.

Responsibilities

• Routinely produces analysis on structured and unstructured problems that meets CNA's quality standards with limited direction and general supervision.
• Develops and maintains deep, specific institutional knowledge and expertise of primary clients/sponsors; their culture, organization, and issues.
• Balances responsiveness to guidance with independent action.
• Supports business development efforts and/or marketing activities by interacting with CNA managers and current clients/sponsors.
• Interacts regularly and independently with clients/sponsors and related parties.
• Influences decisions by sponsors/clients; provide sponsors/clients with implementable recommendations.
• Demonstrates strong and effective communications skills.
• Works under limited direction and general supervision from division management.
• Plays a supporting role in the mentoring and training of new staff individually or as a member of a project team.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum Master's degree in a relevant field, PhD preferred.
• Typical minimum requirements 5+ years of experience in research and analysis.
• Professional-level Mandarin Chinese language skills strongly desired.
• Ability to work on progressively more difficult projects/analyses.
• Ability to operate independently and proactively in the execution of assignments.
• Strong critical thinking skills.
• Knowledge of research techniques.
• Strong planning and organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Strong and effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to interact directly and effectively with clients and influence their decisions.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an Active Secret Security Clearance.

Benefits

• Equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion.