Application Guide

How to Apply for Associate AI Security Resident

at RAND Corporation

🏢 About RAND Corporation

RAND Corporation is a globally respected non-profit think tank that has been at the forefront of policy and decision-making research for over 70 years. Working here means contributing to projects that directly influence national security, technology policy, and public welfare, often in collaboration with government and private sector leaders. The company's commitment to rigorous, objective analysis makes it a unique environment for those passionate about impactful research.

About This Role

As an Associate AI Security Resident, you will lead complex research projects at the intersection of AI, cybersecurity, and policy, developing threat models and tools to evaluate AI vulnerabilities. This role is impactful because it helps shape how organizations and governments secure AI systems, addressing emerging risks in critical infrastructure, defense, and public services. You'll bridge technical and policy domains, producing actionable insights that influence real-world security practices.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing recent AI security literature in the morning, then collaborating with a team to refine a threat model for an AI system used in national security. Afternoon could be spent drafting a policy brief summarizing findings for a government client, followed by a virtual meeting to discuss upcoming research priorities with colleagues from technical and policy backgrounds.

🚀 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 deep expertise in AI security, including knowledge of adversarial machine learning, model poisoning, and data privacy attacks.
  • Experienced in threat modeling and vulnerability assessment, with a track record of developing or applying frameworks like STRIDE or MITRE ATT&CK to AI systems.
  • Possesses strong analytical and research skills, able to synthesize technical findings into clear policy recommendations.
  • Excellent communicator who can write concise policy briefs and present complex ideas to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Tips for Applying to RAND Corporation

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific projects where you've led AI security research, including threat modeling, tool development, or vulnerability discovery.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your experience to RAND's mission of improving policy through research, showing how your work aligns with their focus on actionable outcomes.

3

Showcase any interdisciplinary work combining AI security with policy analysis, as this role requires bridging both areas.

4

Prepare a portfolio or summary of past research outputs (e.g., reports, tools, conference papers) that demonstrate your ability to communicate findings to diverse audiences.

5

Mention familiarity with RAND's previous work on AI security or related topics (e.g., their reports on AI and national security) to show genuine interest and research.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your experience leading complex research projects from concept to completion, particularly in AI security.', 'Highlight your ability to develop threat models and tools specifically for AI systems, not just general cybersecurity.', 'Stress your communication skills for translating technical findings into policy recommendations and briefs.', "Express enthusiasm for RAND's mission and how your work can contribute to their impact on national and global security."]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read RAND's recent reports on AI security, such as 'Securing AI Systems: A Framework for Risk Management' or their work on AI and cyber deterrence.
  • → Familiarize yourself with RAND's research methodology and their approach to interdisciplinary projects combining technical and policy analysis.
  • → Learn about RAND's funding sources and key clients (e.g., U.S. Department of Defense, intelligence community) to understand the impact context.
  • → Explore the career paths of current or past AI Security Residents to see how the role fits into broader career growth at RAND.
Visit RAND Corporation's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you identified a novel vulnerability in an AI system. How did you approach the analysis and what was the outcome?
2 How would you develop a threat model for a large language model deployed in a healthcare setting?
3 Explain a complex AI security concept (e.g., adversarial examples) to a non-technical policymaker.
4 What do you see as the biggest emerging AI security risks in the next 3-5 years, and how should organizations prepare?
5 How do you stay current with rapid developments in AI and cybersecurity, and how would you incorporate new findings into your research?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid focusing solely on technical skills without demonstrating an ability to communicate with non-technical audiences, as the role requires policy briefs.
  • Don't present generic cybersecurity experience without specific examples related to AI systems—this role demands AI-specific expertise.
  • Steer clear of overly academic or jargon-heavy language in your application; RAND values clarity and actionable insights over theoretical complexity.

📅 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 →