Senior Research Analyst

Nakupuna Consulting is looking to hire a Senior Research Analyst to support a DoD client within the Department of the Navy, in executing the research and analytical support requirements of a federal advisory committee. The Senior Research Analyst will support the client in leading studies on innovation within national security. Our team will work to design and present informative learning sessions on business practices related to innovation, according to relevant legislative and executive guidance. The role requires a proactive problem solver with excellent communication and collaboration skills.

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign additional duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

• Lead collaboration efforts with senior DoD officials, industry leaders, government representatives, and committee members on high-impact research projects. These projects will cover strategic management, organizational change, national security, emerging technologies, industry disruptors, and other critical strategic concepts.
• Design, lead, and oversee comprehensive research studies, leveraging advanced analytical techniques to develop actionable recommendations. Draft and present professional reports and briefings to senior stakeholders.
• Develop and implement stakeholder engagement plans. Conduct in-depth interviews with technical subject matter experts (SMEs), government officials, and industry leaders to gather critical information for analysis.
• Design and deliver advanced learning sessions on innovation-related business practices, including design thinking, human-centered design, entrepreneurship, and process improvement. Ensure alignment with current legislative and executive guidance.
• Apply advanced quantitative and qualitative techniques, models, and methodologies to analyze complex data and derive insights.
• Foster a culture of creativity and innovation within the team, encouraging the development of novel tools and concepts to address emerging challenges.
  
  
  

Extensive experience in designing and conducting comprehensive research studies on national security and high-level policy issues. Proficient in assessing research needs, conducting thorough literature reviews, identifying research gaps, and evaluating research feasibility, priorities, methodologies, and procedures.

• Proficient in gathering information, developing assessment criteria, and analyzing key issues with a strong ability to conduct quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis, ensuring accuracy in research findings.
• Proven experience in developing professional, senior-level reports, briefings, studies, and presentations, and collaborating with senior officials and cross-functional teams.
• Effective leadership and teamwork skills, with the ability to contribute effectively to a team environment, work under pressure, adapt quickly to changing environments and priorities, and maintain attention to detail.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
• Strong strategic and innovative thinking, with a focus on leveraging new technologies and methodologies to address policy challenges and gaps.
• Highly skilled in utilizing Microsoft Office Suite and SharePoint for efficient data management and seamless collaboration. Additionally, adept at using various off-the-shelf software solutions to enhance productivity and workflow.
  
  
  

Education and Experience This position requires seven years of relevant professional experience. Experience working in or directly for the Government is required. This position requires a master’s degree from an accredited university or college in a relevant field such as Political Science, International Relations, or Policy. Clearance This position requires a Secret security clearance. Must be a U.S. citizen.

Physical Requirements The ideal candidate must at a minimum be able to meet the following physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation

• Ability to perform repetitive motions with the hands, wrists, and fingers.
• Ability to engage in and follow audible communications in emergency situations.
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk and working on a computer.