Application Guide

How to Apply for AI Policy Research Resident, Associate / Specialist, Center on AI, Security, and Technology

at RAND Corporation

🏢 About RAND Corporation

RAND Corporation is one of the world's most prestigious think tanks, known for its rigorous, nonpartisan research that shapes policy decisions globally. Working here means contributing to high-impact projects with direct influence on national security and technology governance.

About This Role

This role involves leading key components of AI policy research, from designing studies to drafting reports for senior policymakers. As a resident, you'll own deliverables like policy briefs and stakeholder interviews, making a tangible impact on how AI is regulated and deployed.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing recent AI policy developments, conducting a stakeholder interview with a tech company representative, and drafting a policy memo for a government client. Afternoons could be spent in team meetings discussing research design or presenting preliminary findings to colleagues for feedback.

🚀 Application Tools

Generate Cover Letter

AI-powered, tailored for RAND Corporation

Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who RAND Corporation Is Looking For

  • Has a strong background in AI policy, including familiarity with U.S. and international regulatory frameworks (e.g., EU AI Act, NIST AI RMF).
  • Demonstrates ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable policy recommendations for non-technical audiences.
  • Possesses experience conducting stakeholder interviews and synthesizing insights from diverse experts in government, industry, and academia.
  • Shows initiative in owning research projects from design to final report, with a track record of delivering high-quality written products.

📝 Tips for Applying to RAND Corporation

1

Tailor your resume to highlight projects where you conducted policy analysis or technical writing on AI topics, not just academic research.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly mention a specific RAND AI policy report you've read and how your skills align with its methodology.

3

Include a writing sample that demonstrates your ability to distill technical AI concepts for a policy audience (e.g., a memo or policy brief).

4

Network with current or former RAND researchers on LinkedIn to learn about the team culture and ongoing projects.

5

Prepare to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical research question, such as analyzing the impact of an AI regulation on small businesses.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your understanding of RAND's nonpartisan, evidence-based approach and how it aligns with your own research philosophy.", 'Specific examples of past work where you owned a research component from start to finish, especially involving AI policy.', 'Your ability to communicate findings to both technical experts and senior policymakers, citing a relevant experience.', 'Why this particular residency appeals to you and how it fits into your long-term career goals in AI policy.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read recent RAND reports on AI policy, especially those from the Center on AI, Security, and Technology (e.g., on AI ethics or military AI).
  • → Familiarize yourself with RAND's research methodology, particularly its use of qualitative interviews and scenario analysis.
  • → Understand the organizational structure: the center's focus areas, key researchers, and current projects listed on their website.
  • → Review RAND's funding sources and commitment to independence to discuss how it influences research integrity.
Visit RAND Corporation's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you design a study to assess the effectiveness of a specific AI regulation (e.g., the EU AI Act)?
2 Describe a time you had to synthesize conflicting stakeholder perspectives into a coherent policy recommendation.
3 What are the key challenges in balancing AI innovation with security concerns, and how would you research them?
4 How do you stay current on AI policy developments globally, and which recent event is most significant?
5 Walk us through your approach to writing a policy brief for a non-technical audience on a complex AI topic.
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't reference RAND's specific work on AI policy or the center's name.
  • Overemphasizing technical AI skills (e.g., coding) without demonstrating policy analysis or writing abilities.
  • Failing to show awareness of the political and ethical dimensions of AI policy, such as bias, privacy, or national security.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to RAND Corporation!

← Back to Job Listing Apply Now →