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, hosted by the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), 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.
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
Learn more and start your application TODAY at Zintellect – Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) – Intelligence Community – Virtual Applied Research Consortium Program – VARC-2026!