Research Analyst (Artificial Intelligence)

PRIMARY PURPOSE CNA is currently seeking a Research Analyst for our Center for Data Management and Analytics within the Institute for Public Research. As the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is working to balance the needs of increased air traffic demand, integration of new entrants such as uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS, or drones), air taxis and commercial space launches, and application of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), they look to CNA to tackle their most complex challenges through data-driven analyses that produces actionable recommendations. CNA provides insights that combines our knowledge of advanced technologies, modern architectures, and cybersecurity best practices with a deep understanding of the mission to guide implementation. You can join a strong team delivering high impact solutions to modernize FAA systems and operations to meet the needs of the face-paced air traffic control environment. This is an opportunity to advance the mission of the FAA and related aviation stakeholders to enhance the delivery of aviation services for the public good. The Research Analyst will be a key team member, eliciting stakeholder needs and generating requirements, developing operational concepts and use cases, researching emerging technologies and state of the art practices, researching the application of AI/ML for future concepts, designing analyses, modeling, and simulations, and evaluating the application and trade-offs of various technologies. This is all while applying an understanding of impacts and considerations on the national airspace system. The role will contribute recommendations based on recent advances, best practices, and gaps to implement modern systems and technologies that advance the future of aviation while continuing to ensure its safety and security. 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.    JOB DESCRIPTION AND / OR DUTIES  1. With minimal or no guidance, meets CNA’s quality standards when working on well-structured pieces of a project. Demonstrates ability to develop sound analytic frameworks and associated analytic methodologies/ techniques for addressing both structured and unstructured problems.  With direction and supervision, clearly defines, structures, and executes a piece of a complex study to meet quality standards.  Demonstrates analytic creativity and curiosity. 2. Develops and maintains broad, general institutional knowledge of primary clients/sponsors; their culture, organization, and issues. 3. Contributes productively and harmoniously to the work of others; treats everyone respectfully, professionally and fairly.  Keeps others informed.  Proactively identifies and seeks out others working on similar topics.  Works to identify opportunities for collaborations within team, division, and operating unit. 4. Supports business development efforts and/or marketing activities by maintaining strong client relationships through high quality work, increasing the visibility of our work, and other related activities such as proposal preparation. 5. Interacts with sponsors/clients under the supervision of an experienced colleague, and with study POCs independently. 6. Makes significant contributions to research publications and analytic products for individual projects. 7. Demonstrates ability to communicate results of work in a clear and concise fashion.  Effectively communicates one-on-one and in groups.  Can document work efficiently and accurately.  Can effectively present work to colleagues, sponsors, and small audiences that are familiar with content. 8. Works with minimal or no guidance on focused, well-structured pieces of projects.  Works under closer supervision on more complex, less-structured tasks.  Can serve as task lead for pieces of projects by managing own activities.  May lead small projects under the supervision of an RTL/CMD.  9. Exhibits a positive attitude in interactions with colleagues and clients/sponsors.  Provides clear guidance to colleagues on tasks.  Takes responsibility for own actions and outcomes. 10. Performs other duties as assigned.   JOB REQUIREMENTS  1. Education: Minimum Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., science, engineering, mathematics, or data science preferred) or equivalent experience, PhD preferred. 2. Experience: Typical minimum requirements Ph.D. & 0 years or Master’s & 2 years of experience in research and analysis, including experience with artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques and applications.  3. Skills:  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; Strong critical thinking skills; Knowledge of research techniques and creation of research plans and approaches; Knowledge of AI and ML techniques and applications; Technical understanding of AI/ML algorithms Experience supporting AI/ML projects in data collection, model training, or evaluation; Experience in planning for system testing and evaluation, and in particular AI/ML testing and data training Experience in developing AI/ML strategies  Strong planning and organizational skills; Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills; Ability to interact positively and somewhat independently with clients. 4. Other: Serves as an analyst reviewing policies, designing AI/ML research plans and certification frameworks, and identifying applications for these new technologies. Knowledge of FAA and international aviation domain, information technology, and cybersecurity policies preferred  Ability to obtain and maintain an Active Secret Security Clearance. Must submit a writing sample to be considered. Also, must have reference upon request. ***Voluntary (but highly desired) document***Please include a personal statement as part of your application. A personal statement is a chance for us to get to know you. The statement is your opportunity to share your goals, interests, influences and show us that you will be a valuable asset to our organization. Please click here for personal statement guidelines – Click here. Personal statements will not be used as an elimination criteria for this position. They will only be used to enhance a candidate’s application.