Research Scientist - System Security Researcher

Group 53 applies foundational and applied cybersecurity research to the most critical challenges in national security. We develop secure systems that are resilient to adversarial threats—now and in the future. Our work spans the entire R&D spectrum: from system architecture and threat modeling, to cryptographic protocol design, secure implementation, field prototyping, and transition. Our mission is to ensure that national security systems can be trusted and relied on, even in adversary-contested environments.

We work closely with mission areas and divisions across Lincoln Laboratory, enabling breakthroughs in communications, sensing, autonomy, and space systems to retain their strategic edge in real-world deployments. Collaboration across disciplines is central to our impact. Our staff includes system security researchers, applied cryptographers, software engineers, formal methods experts, and embedded systems developers. We bring modern security approaches into complex, high-stakes environments where assurance, performance, and operational realities must coexist.

We are a collegial and mission-driven team. We value excellence, innovation, inclusion, and individual growth. Our culture is known for mentoring and developing PIs and technical leaders. We strive to bring out the best in our people—and our systems—so that the Laboratory, and the nation, can count on them when it matters most.

Short Description

Who This Might Appeal To

This opportunity may resonate with staff who have been working on mission systems and have experienced firsthand how security gaps can emerge—not because the mission was poorly understood, but because implementation decisions, architecture tradeoffs, or rapid prototyping practices left systems vulnerable.

You may be someone who has begun to notice these gaps, who has wrestled with how to build systems that are not just capable, but trustworthy. This is a chance to apply your mission system knowledge in a new context—helping to bring secure-by-design thinking to the Laboratory’s most important technical programs. Whether you’re considering a long-term shift into system security or just a broadening tour to deepen your understanding of secure system design, this role could be a meaningful part of your career at the Laboratory—and a valuable investment in your personal and professional growth.

Job Description

As a Research Scientist, you will:

• Advance the state of the art in secure communications, computing, and storage 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:

• APhD in Computer Security, System Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• Alternatively, aMaster’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 varied 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.
• Applied cryptography and protocols, including industry and government standards.
• 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 leadership, such as overseeing project execution, managing deliverables, or driving strategic initiatives.
• Experience with grant writing, funding applications, and sponsor engagement to support research and program development.
  
  
  

We don't expect candidates to have knowledge in all of these areas, and welcome candidates eager to grow into these areas through hands-on experience and learning.

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: 42277