Principal Research Scientist – Computational Design and Manufacturing

Description

Are you a motivated Research Scientist specializing in Computational Design and Manufacturing with a technical vision and hands‑on knowledge of mission‑focused systems? The Leidos Innovations Center’s newly established Information and Data Science Division is seeking a Principal Research Scientist - Computational Design and Manufacturing to help lead strategic solution developments and projects. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in developing technology‑based approaches that yield novel, innovative capabilities while advancing the state of the art.

We are looking for a proven researcher who can develop and lead a groundbreaking research portfolio using both internal and customer funding.

* The ideal candidate will be able to work out of our office(s) in either San Diego, CA or Arlington, VA but Hybrid/Remote is also an option*

• Develop innovative solutions to challenging problems of interest to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), and Intelligence Community (IC).
• Engage R&D customers and transition partners to understand technical gaps and needs for computational design and crisis manufacturing for mission critical systems.
• Lead teams that execute advanced research in areas of autonomy, optimization, and generative design.
• Develop and deliver complex AI/ML model pipelines and software products.
• Collaborate in cross‑discipline teams to deliver innovations that provide measurable mission impact.
• Track technology trends in the customer and broader R&D communities.

• Proven track record developing and delivering complex AI/ML model pipelines and software products.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Industrial Engineering or a related field and 12+ years prior relevant experience, M.S. degree with 10+ years of prior relevant experience, or Ph.D. with 8+ years of experience (Ph.D. preferred)
• Industry and/or academic experience in generative design, constrained optimization, automated planning, or AI-enabled CAD integration.
• Past experience optimizing manufacturing processes through systems engineering and operations research.
• At least 4 years of experience with programming languages such as Python, C/C++, Rust, or MATLAB.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with experience engaging with senior leadership and technical teams as well as ability to present complex technical solutions in a clear, understandable manner.
• Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance. U.S. citizenship is required.

• Proven track record in proposing, winning, and executing contract R&D with customers such as DARPA, IARPA, or similar agencies within the last 5 years.
• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Industrial Engineering or a related degree.
• Strong publication track record demonstrating experience advancing the state of the art in generative design, constrained optimization, automated planning, or AI-enabled CAD integration.
• Domain experience in design and manufacturing of naval, air, or surface platforms and autonomous systems.
• Experience with simulation, manufacturing automation systems, and digital twin frameworks.
• Experience with automation and industrial control languages for integrating legacy equipment.
• Strong and proven customer relationship skills including the ability to discover the true technical challenges and requirements associated with opportunities, recommend alternative technical approaches, and shape future opportunities.
• Proven experience forming strong teams composed of members from academia and industry for competitive research and development opportunities.
• Active DoD Secret clearance.
• Ability and willingness to work a hybrid schedule onsite in either San Diego California or Arlington Virginia.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster…