Who We Are
IDA’s mission is to answer the most challenging U.S. security and science policy questions with objective analysis leveraging extraordinary scientific, technical, and analytic expertise.
We are a private, nonprofit corporation that operates three Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs). We are headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C., with affiliated offices in Bowie, Maryland; Princeton, New Jersey; La Jolla, California; and Washington, D.C.
FFRDCs are private-sector entities that have unique relationships with sponsoring Federal Government agencies. FFRDCs operate in the public interest as strategic partners with sponsoring agencies to ensure that the highest levels of objectivity and technical excellence are applied to the research and development they conduct on behalf of the government.
- IDA Systems and Analyses Center (SAC), sponsored by the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD).
- IDA Science and Technology Policy Institute (STPI), sponsored by the National Science Foundation.
- IDA Center for Communications and Computing, sponsored by the National Security Agency.
Learn More About FFRDCs
Learn More About Our Guiding Principles
Why IDA?
Our Work. IDA fosters a unique environment where professional growth is supported alongside work that serves a greater purpose. We hold ourselves to the highest standards as the Nation’s most trusted partner in U.S. security and science policy analysis. As a nonprofit, we’re able to provide our sponsors with unbiased outsider perspectives and analyses that make real impact.
Our Culture. At IDA you will be surrounded by professionals at the top of their fields. Whether you are seeking opportunities in research or business operations, our people remain our greatest asset. With regular guest speakers, seminars and social events, we take time to celebrate the social aspects of professional life.
Learn about our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
Our People. We are dedicated to providing our staff and their families with the tools and support needed for success both in the workplace and at home. Our retirement plan offers eligible staff with an 11% employer contribution. We provide competitive health, dental and vision plans in addition to regular wellness events. With flexible work schedules, generous paid leave, including paid parental leave and paid military leave, we work to support all families.