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Managing complex research projects, leading multidisciplinary teams, and communicating findings to stakeholders. | Requires 6+ years in security engineering or related fields, proficiency in programming languages, and experience with threat modeling and system vulnerabilities. | Job Type: Term (Fixed Term) Position Description RAND’s Center on AI, Security, and Technology (CAST), part of the Global and Emerging Risks (GER) Division conducts cutting-edge research on transformative, high-impact technologies—including artificial intelligence and biotechnology—to shape policies that protect global security and advance the public good. You will be responsible for managing significant research budgets and personnel, overseeing complex technical research and policy analysis projects, and leading multidisciplinary teams of policy researchers, engineers, and scientists. Your work will inform analysis delivered to senior government and industry leaders. Your team will communicate findings to both technical and non-technical audiences through quick-turnaround policy briefs and detailed technical analyses. A recent example of one of our research products is the Securing AI Model Weights report, which explored protecting frontier AI model weights from theft and misuse. This position is structured as a two-year appointment with options to renew and explore opportunities for longer-term employment at RAND thereafter. RAND's reputation for excellence is built on our commitment to high-quality, rigorous analysis and objectivity. As a Research Lead - Securing Frontier AI, you'll maintain that excellence while engaging with some of the most pressing challenges of our time. Qualifications All research positions at RAND require excellent analytic skills; the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing; the ability to work effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team; and a strong commitment to RAND's core values of quality and objectivity. Required: 6+ years of technical experience in security engineering, software engineering, firmware engineering, hardware engineering, or related fields 6+ years of technical management experience, including leading cross-functional teams, managing project budgets, and mentoring and developing team members Demonstrated ability to successfully lead complex projects to completion Proficiency in Python, Java, C/C++, or other popular programming languages Ability to develop rigorous and comprehensive threat models and identify potential system vulnerabilities Strong ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing Ability to reason about policy options given different technical considerations Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment Fluency with MS Office suite Preferred: Graduate of the Computer Network Operations Development Program (CNODP), Remote Interactive Operator Training (RIOT), Future Operator Readiness Growth and Enrichment (FORGE), or equivalent experience Experience with red team operations or offensive cyber capabilities development Understanding of advanced persistent threat (APT) tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) and experience with defending against them Ability to think creatively about offensive and/or defensive techniques and strategies, beyond compliance with existing regulations Familiarity with U.S. cybersecurity agencies, authorities, and policy development processes Experience working in or with government on cybersecurity policy Experience with advising non-technical stakeholders on security topics Familiarity with the AI/ML hardware stack (e.g. GPUs, TPUs, data center design) Familiarity with the AI/ML software stack (e.g. CUDA, PyTorch, TensorFlow, Ray) Experience working on AI research, ML model training, or model deployment Experience with securing AI systems Education Requirements RAND is hiring a Research Lead at either the specialist or expert level of experience. Minimum education requirements at the specialist level include: A PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Cybersecurity, Information Security, Information Technology, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Applied Physics, Engineering Physics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Engineering and Public Policy, Technology and Policy, National Security Policy, Policy Analysis, Political Science, International Relations, or similar with at least 3 years of relevant professional experience is required. OR A Master’s degree in the fields listed above with at least 6 years of relevant professional experience, is required. OR A Bachelor’s degree in the fields listed above with at least 8 years of relevant professional experience, is required. Master’s or PhD preferred. Security Clearance Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government clearance is preferred but not required. Location We are hiring for this position in San Francisco, CA; Washington, DC; Santa Monica, CA; Pittsburgh, PA; and Boston, MA. We offer a hybrid work arrangement, combining work from home and on-site options. Fully remote work will also be considered. Writing or Code Sample Either a writing sample or a code sample is required for this position. This sample can use a recent, previously written paper or technical report (e.g., journal article, master’s thesis or paper written for coursework, research project, technical analysis, briefings), or source code showing technical expertise in relevant domains. Term This position is a 3-year term appointment with a possibility of renewal, alongside options for longer term employment. Salary Range: $146,200 - $261,400 Visiting Technical Specialist = $$146,200 - $211,900 Visiting Technical Expert = $167,300 - $261,400 RAND considers a variety of factors when formulating an offer, including but not limited to, the specific role and associated responsibilities; a candidate’s work experience, education/training, skills, expertise; and internal equity. Successful candidates will be offered employment in a specific title, as determined by the candidate’s education and experience. The salary range includes base pay plus RAND’s sabbatic pay (which provides additional compensation above base pay when vacation is taken). In addition, RAND provides strong benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, paid time-off and more. Equal Opportunity Employer RAND is a research organization that develops solutions to public policy challenges to help make communities throughout the world safer and more secure, healthier and more prosperous. RAND’s research and analysis address issues that impact people everywhere, including security, health, education, sustainability, growth, and development. RAND has approximately 1,750 people working in offices in the United States, Europe, and Australia, with annual revenues of $470 million. RAND is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and committed to the public interest. Our research is sponsored by government agencies, international organizations, and foundations. We rely on philanthropic support to pursue visionary ideas; address critical problems that are under-researched; and devise innovative approaches for solving acute, complex, or provocative policy challenges. RAND values objectivity and integrity in both its research processes and internal interactions. We emphasize a collegial environment that respects the contributions and dignity of all staff. RAND's reputation is built on quality and objectivity. RAND provides an exciting intellectual environment and opportunities for career growth with challenging assignments. As collaboration in interdisciplinary teams is an essential operating principle at RAND, we hire highly qualified talent and empower our people to do their best work by fostering a culture in which different views, backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued and respected, and staff have a sense of belonging with their colleagues, fair access to opportunities, and feel comfortable bringing their best selves to work each day. As part of our commitment to Equal Opportunity Employment, we welcome all applicants from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences to apply for this exciting opportunity. RAND is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact Human Resources at (310) 393-0411 or at jobs@rand.org and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

Provide executive leadership for RAND's Global and Emerging Risks division, overseeing research centers, developing strategic plans, and representing RAND to international stakeholders. | Requires extensive senior management experience, expertise in global risks or related fields, and a strong network across government, academia, and industry. | Job Type: Regular Overview RAND Global and Emerging Risks brings together the world’s leading experts, scholars, strategists, and practitioners to understand, prepare, and address rapid advance of artificial intelligence, growing biological threats, a transforming climate, and intensified strategic competition. Its mission is to inform decisionmakers’ understanding of – and approaches to – consequential challenges to civilization and global security. Position Description The Vice President serves as the executive leader for the division and a key contributor to RAND’s global strategy. The VP sets and executes the division’s strategic vision; ensures research excellence and impact; leads people, partnerships, and financial performance; and represents RAND to senior leaders worldwide. The role oversees research centers focused on catastrophic risks from emerging technologies, global competition, and climate; method centers advancing forecasting and decision-making under deep uncertainty; and RAND’s international policy chairs. The VP also directs the RAND Global and Emerging Risks advisory board. Position will be managed on a 5-year term with the possibility to extend up to two additional years. Position reports to the Senior Vice President for Research & Analysis and includes matching AA support. Responsibilities: Provide executive leadership for all activities of the Global and Emerging Risks division, including strategy, research quality, people, partnerships, and financial performance Oversee the division’s research centers: Center on AI, Security, and Technology; Center on the Geopolitics of Artificial General Intelligence; China Research Center; and Center for Climate and Energy Futures Oversee RAND international chairs: Tang Chair in China Policy Studies; Taiwan Policy Initiative; Russia and Eurasia Policy Chair; Korea Policy Chair; Israel Policy Chair; and Strategy and Diplomacy Chair. Oversee the division’s method centers: RAND Frederick S. Pardee Center for Longer Range Global Policy and the Future Human Condition; and RAND Forecasting Initiative Develop and execute the division’s strategic plan, including research priorities, revenue strategy, hiring plans, and talent development Ensure research excellence, methodological rigor, and alignment with RAND’s broader strategic objectives Collaborate with RAND’s U.S. research division leaders to strengthen business development, expand global policy impact, and coordinate government engagement Represent RAND to senior government officials, heads of state, and international dignitaries as a principal spokesperson on global and emerging risks Lead donor engagement for the division, including cultivation, stewardship, events, and leadership of the Global and Emerging Risks advisory board Build and sustain strategic partnerships with government, industry, academia, and philanthropic organizations Promote adoption of cutting‑edge technologies and methodologies to improve research quality and impact Qualifications Exceptional executive management skills, including leadership, interpersonal communication, and team‑building capabilities Demonstrated ability to lead large, multi‑disciplinary teams and to coach and mentor senior leaders and researchers Recognized expertise in at least one of the division’s core domains (AI, synthetic biology, China, or climate/energy) and ability to lead across the full portfolio Strong network of contacts across government, academia, and industry Proven track record of philanthropic fund raising Excellent analytic skills, with the ability to oversee research quality, understand diverse methodologies, and articulate RAND’s analytical capabilities Demonstrated experience engaging senior U.S. and international officials Ability to travel approximately 20% of the time Education Requirements A master's or other advanced degree is required, ideally in a field related to RAND’s programmatic areas. Experience Proven senior-level management experience in a non-profit research institute or university setting, a for-profit entity that has significant government client relationships, or government, along with analytical experience A minimum of 10 years of related experience Experience developing strategic and business plans is desirable with extensive research and research leadership experience strongly preferred Experience working with a Board of Directors or Trustees is desirable Security Clearance Current possession of a U.S. security clearance, or the ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance, is required. Location This is a flexible (hybrid) position based at one of RAND’s U.S. offices—Washington, DC; Santa Monica, CA; Pittsburgh, PA; or Boston, MA. An average of 50% onsite presence is required. Application review Application review will begin February 2, 2026. Salary Range: $300,000 - $383,250 Base Salary: $300,000 - $365,000 Full Salary: $315,000 - $383,250 #LI-DNI Equal Opportunity Employer RAND is a research organization that develops solutions to public policy challenges to help make communities throughout the world safer and more secure, healthier and more prosperous. RAND’s research and analysis address issues that impact people everywhere, including security, health, education, sustainability, growth, and development. RAND has approximately 1,750 people working in offices in the United States, Europe, and Australia, with annual revenues of $470 million. RAND is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and committed to the public interest. Our research is sponsored by government agencies, international organizations, and foundations. We rely on philanthropic support to pursue visionary ideas; address critical problems that are under-researched; and devise innovative approaches for solving acute, complex, or provocative policy challenges. RAND values objectivity and integrity in both its research processes and internal interactions. We emphasize a collegial environment that respects the contributions and dignity of all staff. RAND's reputation is built on quality and objectivity. RAND provides an exciting intellectual environment and opportunities for career growth with challenging assignments. As collaboration in interdisciplinary teams is an essential operating principle at RAND, we hire highly qualified talent and empower our people to do their best work by fostering a culture in which different views, backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued and respected, and staff have a sense of belonging with their colleagues, fair access to opportunities, and feel comfortable bringing their best selves to work each day. As part of our commitment to Equal Opportunity Employment, we welcome all applicants from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences to apply for this exciting opportunity. RAND is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact Human Resources at (310) 393-0411 or at jobs@rand.org and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

Manage AI security and biosecurity policy research projects, coordinate resources and timelines, support recruiting and executive operations, and facilitate cross-team collaboration. | Requires 4+ years project management or operations experience, strong organizational and communication skills, Bachelor's degree minimum, Master's preferred, PMP certification can substitute for degree. | Job Type: Term (Fixed Term) RAND has an exciting opportunity for an AI/Bio Research Project Manager to support the Meselson Center. The Meselson Center, part of RAND's Global and Emerging Risks (GER) division, is dedicated to improving frontier AI security and reducing risks from biological threats through policy research and policy engagement. Two recent examples of our work in these two domains are Securing AI Model Weights and Policy Options to Prevent the Creation of Mirror Life. The successful candidate will contribute to a fast-growing, interdisciplinary team working closely with Center leadership to manage projects, support recruiting efforts, and coordinate key executive operational activities. Main responsibilities will include but are not limited to: Manage AI security and biosecurity policy research projects, including coordinating resources, timelines, and deliverables to keep projects on track. Provide high-level organizational support to Meselson Center leadership to facilitate day-to-day operations and communications. Support recruiting rounds for AI security, biosecurity, and operational roles, partnering closely with RAND HR and talent acquisition teams to support a timely and high-quality hiring process. Build strong working relationships with internal RAND teams such as Finance, Quality Assurance, Talent, and HR to ensure smooth cross-team collaboration and compliance. Manage processes for finance and contracts. Help organize and run workshops, conferences, and team retreats that foster idea exchange and attract top talent to the Meselson Center. Qualifications  2+ years of experience in project management or operations. (A Master’s degree in business administration, public policy, political science, or similar discipline may count for 2 years of experience). Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to multitask, prioritize independently, and perform under pressure. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. Collaborative team player who demonstrates tact, courtesy, and professionalism at all levels of an organization. Term  This position is a 2-year term appointment to create the urgency needed to drive ambitious change in this rapidly evolving field. Every day of your tenure will count toward achieving ambitious projects in AI and biosecurity. The appointment may be renewed for additional time. Education  Minimum: Bachelor's degree; Master's degree preferred. A Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification can substitute for a Bachelor’s degree.   Experience  4 years minimum experience; 6-8 years preferred.  Location Washington, DC (preferred), Pittsburgh, PA, Boston, MA, or Santa Monica or San Francisco, CA (preferred). We offer a hybrid work arrangement, combining work from home and at RAND offices. Security Clearance Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government clearance is a bonus but not required. Salary Range: $75,700-156,500 Research Project Manager I: $75,700 - $112,400  Research Project Manager II: $88,00 - $130,900  Research Project Manager III: $102,800 - $156,500  RAND considers a variety of factors when formulating an offer, including but not limited to, the specific role and associated responsibilities; a candidate’s work experience, education/training, skills, expertise; and internal equity. Successful candidates will be offered employment in a specific title, as determined by the candidate's education and experience. The salary range includes base pay plus RAND’s sabbatic pay (which provides additional compensation above base pay when vacation is taken). In addition, RAND provides strong benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, paid time-off and more. #LI-DNI Equal Opportunity Employer RAND is a research organization that develops solutions to public policy challenges to help make communities throughout the world safer and more secure, healthier and more prosperous. RAND’s research and analysis address issues that impact people everywhere, including security, health, education, sustainability, growth, and development. RAND has approximately 2,025 people from more than 50 countries working in offices in the United States, Europe and Australia, with annual revenues of $435.8 million. RAND is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and committed to the public interest. Our research is sponsored by government agencies, international organizations, and foundations. We rely on philanthropic support to pursue visionary ideas; address critical problems that are under-researched; and devise innovative approaches for solving acute, complex, or provocative policy challenges. RAND values objectivity and integrity in both its research processes and internal interactions. We emphasize a collegial environment that respects the contributions and dignity of all staff. RAND's reputation is built on quality and objectivity. RAND provides an exciting intellectual environment and opportunities for career growth with challenging assignments. As collaboration in interdisciplinary teams is an essential operating principle at RAND, we hire highly qualified talent and empower our people to do their best work by fostering a culture in which different views, backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued and respected, and staff have a sense of belonging with their colleagues, fair access to opportunities, and feel comfortable bringing their best selves to work each day. As part of our commitment to Equal Opportunity Employment, we welcome all applicants from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences to apply for this exciting opportunity. RAND is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact Human Resources at (310) 393-0411 or at jobs@rand.org and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.