Institute for Defense Analyses Interview Questions
& Process

First, an HR phone screen for about 15 minutes. Then, a phone interview with a researcher for about 30 minutes. After that, a full-day, in-person interview. This included a 1-hour research seminar talk for the division, several 30-minute one-on-one interviews, a 75-minute panel interview with 5 researchers, an interview with the division director, and an HR overview.

It was a full day of interviews, some one-on-one and some in small groups. I also had to give a one-hour presentation on a topic I chose. Everyone involved was really friendly and seemed genuinely interested in both the interviews and my presentation. The last person I spoke with was the division director. I got the offer about two weeks later, after not hearing anything for a while.

First, there was an HR screening where they asked about my salary expectations and if I was open to relocating. Then, a phone interview with a researcher who went over my resume. Finally, an on-site interview where I met with 3-4 groups of 2-3 people. These discussions were pretty conversational and mostly focused on my resume, though they did touch on easy questions about the project I'd be working on and some personal questions like my favorite university class.

I applied online with my resume, transcript, and recommendation letters. Then, I was contacted to schedule an onsite interview. They covered my travel and lodging in Alexandria. The interview day began with an HR meeting, followed by a technical panel with two researchers. Lunch was with two other researchers. After lunch, I met with another researcher and then the Director of the Data Science Fellowship. The entire process lasted about four hours. It was mostly a positive experience, with friendly and helpful people. The only unusual part was when they searched my luggage in the lobby, which felt quite awkward.