Intelligence Community - Virtual Applied Research Consortium Program

Virtual Applied Research Consortium Program: Transforming Scientific Discovery into National Security Advantage

Where Intelligence Innovation Meets Mission Impact – Apply Your Experience to America's Most Critical Challenges

Accelerate Your Research Impact in The Intelligence Community

The Intelligence Community's Virtual Applied Research Consortium (VARC) Pilot Program offers elite scientists an unprecedented opportunity to transform cutting-edge research into operational capabilities that directly strengthen America's security posture. Unlike traditional research environments, our virtual applied research laboratories focus on practical applications in critical technology domains that will determine future global advantage. Do you have what it takes to join a select cohort of brilliant minds researching national security's most pressing challenges? 2026 Focus Area: Artificial Intelligence Our inaugural virtual laboratory will focus on artificial intelligence applications critical to intelligence and national security. Selected researchers will address high-priority challenges under the guidance of experienced IC mentors.

What You’ll Experience As a Virtual Applied Research Consortium Program participant, you'll join a virtual consortium of up to 10 elite postdoctoral researchers focused on converting theoretical knowledge into practical solutions. This isn't abstract academic research – your experience will be guided by real-world intelligence requirements and operational needs. You'll participate in:

• Quarterly research reviews with direct IC feedback
• Collaborative problem-solving across the intelligence enterprise
• Development of prototypes and proof-of-concepts
• Briefings and demonstrations for intelligence community leadership
• Creation of transition pathways for promising technologies
• Elite Standards, Exceptional Opportunities

We're seeking candidates with outstanding academic credentials, exceptional character, and high motivation who want to make a difference in areas vital to national security. The Program Offers:

• A yearly stipend ranging from $87,000 to $91,000
• Collaborative virtual research environment
• Direct mentorship from IC subject matter experts
• Opportunity to gain experience researching problems at the forefront of national security

Postdoc Eligibility U.S. citizens only Ph.D. in a relevant field must be completed before beginning the appointment and within five years of the appointment start date Proposal must be associated with an accredited U.S. university, college, or U.S. government laboratory Eligible candidates may only receive one award from the ORISE Research Participation Programs at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence Research Advisor Eligibility Must be an employee of an accredited U.S. university, college or U.S. government laboratory Are not required to be U.S. citizens

The application must be completed through Zintellect.