Research Jobs in Colorado
Research jobs in Colorado are in strong demand, concentrated in biotechnology, aerospace, public health, and higher education sectors with openings from entry-level research assistants to senior principal investigators. Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins anchor the market, where employers like the University of Colorado system, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, and Lockheed Martin Space maintain substantial research workforces. The most sought-after specialties include clinical research, environmental science, and materials research tied to Colorado's defense and clean-energy industries. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Showing 5 of 51+ Research jobs
Overview
The Science, Systems, and Sustainment Division (S3D) has an immediate opening for a research analyst at Schriever SFB, Colorado to support the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) in analysis of the Command Control Battle Management and Communications (C2BMC) and the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) Architecture (BOA) elements of the Missile Defense System (MDS) in system level testing. The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non-profit corporation that operates three federally funded research and development centers to provide objective analyses of national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise. IDA research staff members conduct multi-disciplinary analyses in an environment encouraging rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues. IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package
Responsibilities
The C2BMC and BOA analysis group within S3D provides independent, technically rigorous analysis and decision support to MDA officials on the test and evaluation of these elements within the Missile Defense System (MDS) and will in due course require a very deep understanding of those systems. Based in support of the C2BMC program at the Missile Defense Integration and Operations Center (MDIOC) in Colorado Springs, the group evaluates all aspects of C2BMC and BOA performance, including maintaining a consistent integrated air picture, providing situational awareness, managing sensors, and assessing system interoperability. Analysts support test planning and execution, conduct independent and in-depth analyses of test results, identify issues and anomalies, direct the efforts of other analysts, and support real-world missile launch events, presenting findings to mid- and senior-level military and civilian leaders across MDA. The work involves close interaction with government officials and contractors responsible for planning and executing MDS tests, as well as those responsible for developing, fielding, and operating C2BMC, BOA and other MDS systems. It requires strong scientific and technical skills, particularly quantitative analysis, and is conducted both independently and in small teams. Occasional travel may be required.
Required Qualifications
-
Candidates must have one of the following education/experience combinations:
- A Doctoral degree in Material Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Biology, Engineering, Operations Research, Statistics, Data Science, Physics, Computer Science or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus; OR
- A Master’s degree in Material Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Biology, Engineering, Operations Research, Statistics, Data Science, Physics, Computer Science or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus discipline coupled with 6+ years’ experience; OR
- A Bachelor’s degree in Material Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Biology, Engineering, Operations Research, Statistics, Data Science, Physics, Computer Science or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus discipline coupled with 8+ years’ experience.
- Ability to collect, organize, synthesize and analyze data; summarize findings, develop and report conclusions. Able to problem solve in a clear and concise manner, have strong communication skills and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Experience with data parsing, filtering and manipulation; MATLAB preferred.
- Must be an experienced briefer capable of expressing complex ideas and concepts to both senior leaders and other technical analysts.
- Current DOD Secret Security Clearance is required.
- Successful completion of a background check is required.
- This position is located at at Schriever SFB, Colorado.
Why IDA?
We are committed to creating a workplace that fosters inclusion and values the unique perspectives and experiences of every individual. Our commitment to inclusion extends beyond recruitment; it permeates our culture, policies, and practices. We strive to provide a respectful and supportive environment where every team member can thrive and contribute their best. Click here to view our vision, mission, and guiding principles.
What are the next steps?
- Complete the application and submit your resume.
-
The application process consists of three interviews.
- A short screening call with HR;
- A 30 min – 60 min screening call with researchers; and
- Full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving a presentation on a research project.
-
Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
- Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
- 3 letters of recommendation; and
- A writing sample.
Benefits
At IDA, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive benefits package that ensures the well-being and security of our staff and their families. We provide a range of medical plans as well as stand-alone dental and vision coverage. Our retirement plans are designed to secure the financial future of our staff, featuring a generous contribution of 10% of base salary to our Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service. We are committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance with a flexible work environment, an Employee Assistance Plan, paid parental leave, 10 paid holidays, and generous paid time off. IDA encourages professional development and offers tuition reimbursement and other learning opportunities. Learn more about our robust benefit offerings here.
Pay
We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $113,353 - $277,494. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent’s experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.
U.S. Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required
IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
IDA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to employment@ida.org and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/compliance-assistance/self-id-forms-video
Overview
The Science, Systems, and Sustainment Division (S3D) has an immediate opening for a research analyst at Schriever SFB, Colorado to support the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) in analysis of the Command Control Battle Management and Communications (C2BMC) and the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) Architecture (BOA) elements of the Missile Defense System (MDS) in system level testing. The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non-profit corporation that operates three federally funded research and development centers to provide objective analyses of national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise. IDA research staff members conduct multi-disciplinary analyses in an environment encouraging rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues. IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package
Responsibilities
The C2BMC and BOA analysis group within S3D provides independent, technically rigorous analysis and decision support to MDA officials on the test and evaluation of these elements within the Missile Defense System (MDS) and will in due course require a very deep understanding of those systems. Based in support of the C2BMC program at the Missile Defense Integration and Operations Center (MDIOC) in Colorado Springs, the group evaluates all aspects of C2BMC and BOA performance, including maintaining a consistent integrated air picture, providing situational awareness, managing sensors, and assessing system interoperability. Analysts support test planning and execution, conduct independent and in-depth analyses of test results, identify issues and anomalies, direct the efforts of other analysts, and support real-world missile launch events, presenting findings to mid- and senior-level military and civilian leaders across MDA. The work involves close interaction with government officials and contractors responsible for planning and executing MDS tests, as well as those responsible for developing, fielding, and operating C2BMC, BOA and other MDS systems. It requires strong scientific and technical skills, particularly quantitative analysis, and is conducted both independently and in small teams. Occasional travel may be required.
Required Qualifications
-
Candidates must have one of the following education/experience combinations:
- A Doctoral degree in Material Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Biology, Engineering, Operations Research, Statistics, Data Science, Physics, Computer Science or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus; OR
- A Master’s degree in Material Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Biology, Engineering, Operations Research, Statistics, Data Science, Physics, Computer Science or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus discipline coupled with 6+ years’ experience; OR
- A Bachelor’s degree in Material Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Biology, Engineering, Operations Research, Statistics, Data Science, Physics, Computer Science or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of these areas of focus discipline coupled with 8+ years’ experience.
- Ability to collect, organize, synthesize and analyze data; summarize findings, develop and report conclusions. Able to problem solve in a clear and concise manner, have strong communication skills and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Experience with data parsing, filtering and manipulation; MATLAB preferred.
- Must be an experienced briefer capable of expressing complex ideas and concepts to both senior leaders and other technical analysts.
- Current DOD Secret Security Clearance is required.
- Successful completion of a background check is required.
- This position is located at at Schriever SFB, Colorado.
Why IDA?
We are committed to creating a workplace that fosters inclusion and values the unique perspectives and experiences of every individual. Our commitment to inclusion extends beyond recruitment; it permeates our culture, policies, and practices. We strive to provide a respectful and supportive environment where every team member can thrive and contribute their best. Click here to view our vision, mission, and guiding principles.
What are the next steps?
- Complete the application and submit your resume.
-
The application process consists of three interviews.
- A short screening call with HR;
- A 30 min – 60 min screening call with researchers; and
- Full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving a presentation on a research project.
-
Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
- Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
- 3 letters of recommendation; and
- A writing sample.
Benefits
At IDA, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive benefits package that ensures the well-being and security of our staff and their families. We provide a range of medical plans as well as stand-alone dental and vision coverage. Our retirement plans are designed to secure the financial future of our staff, featuring a generous contribution of 10% of base salary to our Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service. We are committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance with a flexible work environment, an Employee Assistance Plan, paid parental leave, 10 paid holidays, and generous paid time off. IDA encourages professional development and offers tuition reimbursement and other learning opportunities. Learn more about our robust benefit offerings here.
Pay
We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $113,353 - $277,494. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent’s experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.
U.S. Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required
IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
IDA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to employment@ida.org and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/compliance-assistance/self-id-forms-video
See All 51 Research Jobs in Colorado
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Find Research JobsResearch Jobs by City in Colorado
Where Colorado roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Job Market in Colorado
A snapshot from current Colorado openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
What Colorado Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research jobs across Colorado.
- Bachelor's or advanced degree in a relevant scientific or technical discipline
- Experience designing and executing research studies or laboratory experiments
- Proficiency with statistical analysis software such as R, Python, or SPSS
- Demonstrated ability to write clear technical reports and peer-reviewed manuscripts
- Familiarity with federal grant compliance and IRB or IACUC protocols
- Strong collaboration skills for cross-functional team and interdisciplinary project work
Research Jobs in Colorado: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a research in Colorado?
Most research positions in Colorado require at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, engineering, or social sciences, with many roles at government labs and universities expecting a master's or doctorate. Colorado does not issue a single state research license, but clinical research professionals often pursue ACRP or SOCRA certification, and those working in regulated environments may need Colorado-specific human subjects or laboratory compliance training through their hiring institution.
Which companies hire researchs in Colorado?
Colorado research roles are posted by University of Colorado, Univeristy Of Colorado Boulder, and Anduril and others right now, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Colorado's concentration of federal labs, aerospace contractors, and research universities means a wide range of employers post openings throughout the year rather than in seasonal bursts.
Which Colorado cities have the most research jobs?
Denver, Aurora, and Boulder lead Colorado for research job openings. Denver draws clinical, public health, and corporate research roles tied to its large hospital systems and tech sector, Boulder's concentration of federal labs like NIST and NOAA drives scientific research hiring, and Fort Collins benefits from Colorado State University and agricultural research institutions anchoring steady demand in that corridor.
Are there remote research jobs in Colorado?
Yes, but they're less common than in purely desk-based fields, since many research roles require laboratory access, fieldwork, or on-site collaboration. About 65% of research openings tied to Colorado are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting that flexibility is most available in data analysis, literature review, grant writing, and research coordination roles rather than hands-on lab or field positions.
How can I get hired as a research in Colorado with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is a paid research assistant or lab technician role, which Colorado universities and federal facilities like the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and USGS regularly post for candidates with a relevant bachelor's degree and no prior professional experience. Colorado State University, the University of Colorado Boulder, and Denver Health run structured undergraduate and post-baccalaureate research programs that serve as direct pipelines. Earning an ACRP Certified Research Associate credential or completing a Good Clinical Practice training course gives applicants a concrete edge when applying.
Where can I find and apply to research jobs in Colorado?
You can find and apply to research jobs in Colorado on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers hiring in the state right now. Search for roles that match your background, and apply directly to the ones that fit your experience and location.
See All 51 Research Jobs in Colorado
Find roles in Colorado that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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