Application Guide

How to Apply for Associate, AI Security Resident

at RAND Corporation

🏢 About RAND Corporation

RAND Corporation is a prestigious non-profit think tank that combines rigorous research with practical policy impact. Working here means contributing to national security and public policy decisions at the highest levels, with a strong emphasis on evidence-based analysis and interdisciplinary collaboration.

About This Role

This role focuses on the intersection of AI and security, leading projects that range from technical vulnerability research to policy development. As an AI Security Resident, you'll develop threat models, build security evaluation tools, and translate complex findings into actionable policy recommendations, directly influencing how AI systems are secured and governed.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing recent AI security literature, conducting threat modeling workshops with colleagues, and coding a prototype for a vulnerability scanner. You'd also draft a policy brief summarizing findings for a government client, then join a virtual meeting to discuss research priorities with RAND's security team.

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🎯 Who RAND Corporation Is Looking For

  • Expert in AI security with hands-on experience in threat modeling and vulnerability assessment, preferably in adversarial machine learning or AI system red-teaming.
  • Proficient in software development (e.g., Python, C++) and experienced in building security evaluation tools or frameworks.
  • Strong communicator able to distill technical findings into clear policy briefs and research products for non-technical audiences.
  • Strategic thinker who can identify critical gaps in AI security and propose research directions aligned with national security priorities.

📝 Tips for Applying to RAND Corporation

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific AI security projects, especially those involving threat modeling or tool development for vulnerability assessment.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your technical expertise to policy implications—RAND values research that informs decision-making.

3

Showcase any experience with government or defense-related AI security work, as RAND frequently collaborates with federal agencies.

4

Include links to published research, policy briefs, or open-source tools you've developed related to AI security.

5

Demonstrate your ability to work remotely and independently, as this is a remote position but likely involves collaborative projects.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your technical expertise in AI security and how it directly applies to developing threat models and evaluation tools.', 'Highlight your communication skills with examples of translating complex technical findings into policy-relevant insights.', "Show your understanding of RAND's mission and how your work contributes to improving policy and decision-making through research.", 'Mention any experience leading projects or working in interdisciplinary teams, as the role involves leading complex projects.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review RAND's recent publications on AI security, particularly those from the RAND Project AIR FORCE or the Homeland Security Operational Analysis Center.
  • → Familiarize yourself with RAND's research methodology and how they combine technical analysis with policy recommendations.
  • → Look into any current RAND projects involving AI and national security, such as work on adversarial machine learning or AI governance.
  • → Understand RAND's organizational structure and the role of the 'Resident' position within their research teams.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you identified a critical vulnerability in an AI system. How did you approach the threat modeling?
2 How would you design a software tool to evaluate an AI system's cyber capabilities? Walk through the key components.
3 How do you balance technical depth with accessibility when communicating findings to non-technical stakeholders?
4 What do you see as the most pressing AI security research gaps, and how would you prioritize them?
5 Given RAND's policy focus, how would you ensure your technical research has practical policy impact?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid focusing solely on technical details without connecting them to policy or real-world impact—RAND values actionable research.
  • Don't submit a generic cover letter; it should specifically address how your skills align with AI security and policy.
  • Don't overlook the importance of communication skills; failing to demonstrate ability to write for non-technical audiences can be a deal-breaker.

📅 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!

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Good luck with your application to RAND Corporation!

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