Application Guide

How to Apply for Research Lead - AI Security Policy

at RAND Corporation

🏢 About RAND Corporation

The RAND Corporation is a unique nonpartisan think tank that bridges academic research with real-world policy impact, operating as a nonprofit institution that serves public interest rather than private clients. Working at RAND offers the opportunity to conduct rigorous, evidence-based research that directly informs government decisions and shapes national security policy, with a culture that values intellectual independence and multidisciplinary collaboration.

About This Role

As Research Lead for AI Security Policy, you would spearhead research initiatives examining the intersection of artificial intelligence and national security, developing evidence-based policy recommendations for government stakeholders. This role is impactful because it addresses one of the most critical emerging security challenges, with your research potentially shaping how governments worldwide approach AI governance, military applications, and strategic competition.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve leading a team meeting to coordinate research on AI vulnerability assessments, analyzing recent policy developments in AI governance, and drafting sections of a report for Department of Defense stakeholders. You'd likely spend significant time reviewing technical literature, coordinating with subject matter experts across RAND's various divisions, and preparing briefings that translate complex AI security concepts into actionable policy options.

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🎯 Who RAND Corporation Is Looking For

  • Possesses deep expertise in both AI/ML technologies and national security policy frameworks, with demonstrated ability to bridge technical and policy domains
  • Has experience leading multidisciplinary research teams and managing complex projects from conception to publication
  • Demonstrates strong analytical skills with publications or reports that have influenced policy discussions or decision-making
  • Understands government stakeholders' needs and can translate technical AI concepts into actionable policy recommendations

📝 Tips for Applying to RAND Corporation

1

Highlight specific research projects where you've analyzed AI's security implications, emphasizing methodological rigor and policy relevance

2

Demonstrate understanding of RAND's nonpartisan approach by avoiding ideological language and focusing on evidence-based analysis

3

Reference specific RAND publications on AI or security policy to show you've studied their research approach and priorities

4

Emphasize experience working with government agencies or policymakers, as this role requires translating research into actionable guidance

5

Quantify your research impact where possible (e.g., 'research cited in X policy document' or 'informed Y congressional hearing')

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your ability to conduct rigorous, evidence-based research that remains policy-relevant and actionable for government stakeholders', "Specific examples of how you've previously analyzed complex security challenges and developed practical recommendations", 'Your experience leading research teams and managing projects with multiple stakeholders and tight deadlines', "Why RAND's nonpartisan, public-interest mission aligns with your professional values and research approach"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review RAND's recent publications on AI and national security, particularly those from the Homeland Security Operational Analysis Center
  • → Study RAND's research quality standards and peer review process to understand their methodological expectations
  • → Examine how RAND researchers typically structure policy recommendations in their reports and briefings
  • → Research RAND's major government clients and stakeholders in the national security space to understand their needs
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you design a research project to assess the security risks of large language models in military applications?
2 What methodological approaches would you use to ensure your AI security research remains policy-relevant while maintaining academic rigor?
3 How have you previously navigated classified or sensitive information in your research while maintaining transparency?
4 Describe a time when your research findings challenged conventional wisdom in security policy and how you communicated those findings
5 How would you approach building relationships with government stakeholders who may have competing priorities regarding AI regulation?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Focusing too heavily on technical AI expertise without demonstrating understanding of policy processes and government decision-making
  • Using partisan or ideological language that contradicts RAND's nonpartisan, evidence-based approach
  • Presenting research experience that lacks clear policy impact or connection to real-world decision-making

📅 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!

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