Applied AI/ML Researcher

Come and help defend the nation in cyberspace! In the Cyber Operations & Analysis Technology Group at MIT Lincoln Laboratory, we research challenging technical problems in cyber security, develop new technologies, and prototype first-of-a-kind systems. We have particular focus on enabling human operators and improving operational systems, orienting our work toward strong practical impact.

We work across a variety of cutting-edge national-security applications:

• Quantifying risk posed by adversary cyber threats to key national security missions
• Enhancing the cyber security and resilience of critical infrastructure and other operational technology
• Protecting and defending U.S. weapon systems in cyber contested environments
• Helping the nation’s cyber operators do their jobs better, faster, and at greater scale
• Creating game-changing capabilities for defensive cyberspace operations
  
  
  

As an interdisciplinary group, we innovate by drawing insights from computer science, software engineering, data engineering, data science, artificial intelligence/machine learning, electrical engineering, mathematics, statistics, physics, and allied technical fields. We collaborate with research partners across MIT, offering frequent opportunities to team and learn in new areas. If you want a career in R&D with the opportunity to have real impact on important problems, join us!

Job Description:

As an Applied AI/ML Researcher in the Cyber Operations & Analysis Technology Group, you will apply your expertise in AI/ML and cyber security to develop innovative solutions to enhance cyber resilience and the effectiveness of U.S. cyber operations. Your responsibilities will include:

• Architecting, developing, and demonstrating cutting-edge data analysis and software solutions in areas where AI/ML has not been applied before.
• Diving deep with real data and systems.
• Collaborating with a dynamic team to rapidly acquire new skills and apply them to emerging application areas, expanding your technical capabilities and expertise.
• Contributing to project leadership, technical execution, and knowledge sharing through publications, presentations, and other community engagement activities.
• Participating in a culture of continuous learning and growth, with opportunities to advance as a researcher and technical expert.
  
  
  

Education and Technical Experience:

To be considered for this role, you must possess the following qualifications:

• A degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related technical field and work experience.
• PhD degree, with experience preferred in applying skills beyond a pure research environment. OR
• Master’s degree with at least 5 years of relevant technical experience. OR
• Bachelor’s degree with at least 10 years of relevant technical experience.
• Proficiency using artificial intelligence/machine learning for data analysis and software system design.
• Cyber security experience.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including technical communication for non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively on difficult, open-ended problems in cyber security and operations with interdisciplinary technical teams.
• Motivation to identify underlying technical problems and investigate solutions proactively.
  
  

Technical expertise in one or more of the following areas:

Desired But Not Required, With Research Experience Especially Valued.

• Experience applying large language models (LLMs) for retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) for technical problems.
• Proficiency in Python, C/C , Java, or similar.
• United States military operations with defensive cyber operations preferred.
• Data architecture and data engineering.
• Mathematical or statistical modeling and problem-solving.
• Human–system integration.
  
  
  

General Requirements for this Position:

• Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret-level DoD security clearance.
• Must be within commutable distance of Lexington, Massachusetts.
• This is a technical staff position conducting R&D in cyber security. Applicants looking for IT or Information Systems Security roles should look for other opportunities in those roles available at Lincoln Laboratory.
  
  
  

At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• MIT-funded pension
• Matching 401K
• Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
• Mentorship programs
• A range of work-life balance options
• ... and much more!
  
  
  

Please visit our Benefits page for more information. As an employee of MIT, you can also take advantage of other voluntary benefits, discounts and perks .

Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.

Requisition ID: 42073