IDSA offers membership to individuals and institutions engaged or interested in defence, strategic and security studies. Membership activities are guided and monitored by the Membership Committee of IDSA's Executive Council.

IDSA offers opportunities for scholars based in other countries and institutions to carry out research at the institute.

IDSA is staffed by a mix of civilian experts and government officials drawn from the civilian bureaucracy, the military, and paramilitary forces. Civilian experts are recruited on multi-year contracts to work on various approved projects.

IDSA is looking for young persons who are seeking internship opportunities for 6 to 12 months.

The project's aim is to encourage research by experts and scholars not in the employment of IDSA. IDSA invites scholars and experts to submit proposals for undertaking research projects.