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Cyber Security Research Assistant

Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Oak Ridge, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 6 Apr 2026

About the role

Requisition Id 16198 

 

Overview: 

 

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest US Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. 

 

We are seeking a Cybersecurity Research Assistant who will support the Cybersecurity Research Group in the Cyber Resilience and Intelligence Division, National Security Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).    

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

 

  • Support with designing, configuring, and running advanced cybersecurity experimentation testbeds
  • Write software to support cutting edge research and facilitate Proof of Concept demonstrations
  • Implement, evaluate, and enhance machine learning pipelines for cybersecurity applications

 

Basic Qualifications:

 

  • An MS in computer science, mathematics, or a related field completed within the last 5 years. A BS degree and at least 2 years of relevant research experience will also be considered.
  • Familiarity with cyber physical security, applications of AI to cybersecurity, and software engineering principles
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory 
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs

 

Preferred Qualifications:

 

  • Familiarity with containerization technologies and microservices
  • Familiarity with basic machine learning and data analysis pipelines (ingestion, cleaning, feature selection, hyperparameter tuning)
  • Experience deploying vendor technologies in range environments and DevOps pipelines
  • Experience with reverse engineering tools
  • Active DOE Q or DOD TS Clearance  

 

Special Requirement

 

Q clearance with SCI: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.  In addition, due the SCI, you may also be subject to random polygraph testing. 

 

About ORNL

 

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

 

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

 

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

 

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate

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Oak Ridge National Laboratory

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