RAND Corp. Cuts Over 260 Jobs Amid Federal Funding Crisis

BREAKING: RAND Corp., the Santa Monica-based think tank, has just announced a drastic reduction of over 11% of its workforce, amounting to more than 260 jobs. This significant cut comes amid a turbulent federal funding landscape and was confirmed by a spokesperson on October 21, 2023.

The layoffs were first reported on LinkedIn, where RAND stated that this “shift aligns our resources with changes in the broader research environment.” According to RAND’s 2023 tax documents, the organization employed 2,396 people globally, indicating that the cuts may impact positions across its numerous offices, including locations in Washington, D.C., Boston, and even as far as Australia.

Officials at RAND, including spokesperson Jeremy Rawitch, emphasized that the decision was difficult but necessary, aimed at returning to staffing levels of previous years. In a statement, Rawitch asserted, “RAND remains firmly committed to the quality and objectivity that define our research, and our work for clients and sponsors continues uninterrupted.” He added that the organization is providing support to affected employees, highlighting their valuable contributions.

This workforce reduction comes in the wake of an October 1 federal government shutdown, which has left many entities, including RAND, grappling with uncertainty in funding. The organization, known for its critical research in public policy and national security, reported annual revenues of $461 million for its 2024 fiscal year—a stark reminder of the stakes involved.

RAND has a long legacy of consulting on national security issues since its founding in 1946. With its extensive network of research centers, including four federally funded research and development centers, the impact of these layoffs raises pressing concerns about the future of public policy research in the U.S.

As RAND navigates this challenging period, the implications for its ongoing projects—including vital studies on homelessness in Los Angeles—remain to be seen. The organization has historically been a key resource for the federal government, universities, and various foundations, and the layoffs could hinder its capacity to deliver timely research.

The situation is evolving rapidly, and observers are keenly watching how RAND will adjust its operations and workforce in the coming days. With funding levels uncertain and the political climate in flux, the ripple effects of these layoffs could be felt widely across sectors that rely on RAND’s research and expertise.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.