Research Scientist - System Security Researcher

 

We live in a time where you have a choice—where to work, where to apply your talents and ideas, and where to pursue growth and self-fulfillment.

 

Our Secure, Resilient Systems and Technology Group is a collaborative team of security architects and researchers, applied cryptographers, software developers, and embedded systems engineers. Together, we address critical national security challenges through innovative, high-impact research. Our team thrives on tackling complex, high-stakes challenges, advancing solutions that safeguard critical mission systems and make a tangible difference in national security. From problem analysis and solution design to rapid prototyping, field testing, and technology transfer to the Department of Defense (DoD), the Intelligence Community (IC), and industry, we engage in all phases of research and development. As part of MIT, we collaborate with academia and publish our findings in top-tier venues.

 

We are proud to have built an environment that fosters collaboration, empowers innovation, and supports both individual and team excellence, where diverse perspectives drive meaningful impact. We value everyone’s unique contributions and provide opportunities for our team members to learn, grow, and realize their full potential.

 

If this resonates with you, and you’re ready to pursue cutting-edge research that truly matters while working in an inclusive environment with abundant resources, healthy work-life balance, and colleagues who value excellence, curiosity, and collaboration, we encourage you to apply.

 

Job Description

 

As a Research Scientist, you will:

 

• Advance the state of the art in secure computing, storage, and communication technologies.
• Develop, prototype, and apply these innovations to next-generation mission-critical systems relevant to National Security.
• Participate in end-to-end research activities, from concept development and systems analysis to prototyping and technology transfer.
• Collaborate with experts across disciplines to drive innovative solutions that meet real-world challenges and stakeholder needs.
• Have opportunities to take on technical leadership roles, shape research directions, support and eventually lead program development, and drive strategic initiatives that advance the Laboratory’s mission and amplify its impact.

 

Required Qualifications

 

To thrive in this role, you should have:

 

• A PhD in Computer Security, System Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
  • Alternatively, a Master’s degree with at least 5 years of relevant experience.
• Expertise in at least one of the following:
  • Architecture, analysis, design, implementation, and verification of secure and/or cryptographic embedded software, subsystems, systems, or protocols.
  • Academic or professional research in computer security, resiliency, or cryptography, demonstrated through innovative and impactful publications or projects.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to communicate effectively in a collaborative environment.

 

We value diverse paths to expertise and encourage candidates with practical experience or alternative educational backgrounds to apply.

 

Desired Knowledge

 

We also value experience or interest in one or more of the following:

 

• Threat modeling and security requirements analysis.
• Advanced and applied cryptography, including industry and government standards, as well as techniques such as multi-party computation and zero-knowledge protocols.
• Operating system internals, embedded systems security, and network protocols.
• Secure programming in languages such as Rust and C/C++
• Applied formal methods and software analysis tools.
• Technical mentoring and leadership, including guiding junior team members and fostering collaborative environments.
• Program leadershi