IDA Ideas

In this insightful discussion, Ashley Nunes, a research staff member at the Science and Technology Policy Institute, delves into the intricate world of critical minerals. She explains their significance to both economic and national security, covering the geopolitical dynamics influencing resource definitions worldwide. Nunes highlights the looming shortfall of minerals crucial for electric vehicle production and discusses historical perspectives shaping current policies. She also addresses the vital advancements needed in battery technology for decarbonizing aviation.

In this discussion, guest James "Jim" Platte, a researcher specializing in nuclear weapons effects and strategic deterrence, delves into the evolving landscape of U.S. nuclear strategy. He highlights the historical impact of nuclear deterrence since 1945 and the importance of the nuclear triad. Jim also examines how advanced technologies, like AI, are reshaping deterrence amidst rising tensions with China. Moreover, he underlines the critical role of alliances and mutual defense treaties in maintaining U.S. credibility and security commitments globally.

Arun Maiya, a computer scientist at IDA's Information Technology and Systems Division, dives into the fascinating world of AI and machine learning. He uncovers the rapid advancements in generative AI and introduces groundbreaking projects like iData and Ktrain. The discussion emphasizes the critical importance of data quality and monitoring in AI applications, especially in defense and health diagnostics. Arun also touches on the evolution of neural networks and the challenge of balancing safety and innovation in this fast-paced field.

IDA Ideas host Rhett Moeller speaks with IDA President Norty Schwartz about the nature of federally funded research and development centers and what makes IDA a standout organization. Transcript

In this transcript of an episode of the podcast IDA Ideas, host Rhett Moeller speaks to V. Bram Lillard and Benjamin Ashwell about weapons system readiness and sustainment. Bram is the Director of the Operational Evaluation Division (OED) in the Systems and Analyses Center, an IDA-operated federally funded research and development center. Benjamin is a researcher in OED. Transcript

IDA Ideas host Rhett A. Moeller spoke to James S. Thomason and Julie C. Kelly, researchers at the IDA Systems and Analyses Center, about how they estimate the risks to critical supply chains. Transcript

IDA Ideas host Rhett Moeller spoke to Assistant Director at IDA’s Science and Technology Policy Institute (STPI) Asha Balakrishnan about the challenges orbital debris poses and how to respond to them in the policy arena. Transcript

IDA Ideas host Rhett A. Moeller spoke to Curtis Miller and Mark Herrera, researchers in the IDA Systems and Analyses Center, about their experiences as attendees on the last day of the Defense and Aerospace Test and Analysis Workshop (DATAWorks) 2023, held at IDA in Alexandria, Virginia, on April 25-27. Transcript and Notes

IDA Ideas host Rhett A. Moeller spoke to John T. Haman and Jason M. Hustedt, researchers in the IDA Systems and Analyses Center, about their experiences as attendees on the second day of the Defense and Aerospace Test and Analysis Workshop (DATAWorks) 2023, held at IDA in Alexandria, Virginia, on April 25-27. Transcript and Notes

IDA Ideas host Rhett A. Moeller spoke to Addison D. Adams and Olivia Gozdz, researchers in the IDA Systems and Analyses Center, about their experiences as attendees on the first day of the Defense and Aerospace Test and Analysis Workshop (DATAWorks) 2023, held at IDA in Alexandria, Virginia, on April 25-27. Transcript and Notes