Associate Research Scientist; PREP

General Description

The PREP Research Associate position is part of NIST's Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. The role focuses on evaluating and advancing measurement of real‑time deep‑fake detection and digital injection prevention for digital identity services, collaborating with academic researchers to support federal and commercial cybersecurity needs.

Evaluating and Advancing Measurement of Real‑Time Deep‑Fake Detection and Digital Injection Prevention for Digital Identity Services.

• Generate deepfakes for testing and evaluation.
• Propose a scientific framework to evaluate detection and prevention tools.
• Recommend performance metrics for deep‑fake detection systems.
• Present results at internal meetings and occasional external stakeholder meetings.
• Ensure results, protocols, software, and documentation are archived or transmitted to the larger organization.
• Assist in developing research papers or guidelines.

• Doctorate or enrollment in a doctoral program focused on Computer Science, Engineering, or Cybersecurity.
• 5-8 years of relevant experience.
• Expertise in biometric systems and biometric system threats.
• Ability to work with software and hardware to replicate deep‑fake threats and evaluate detection performance.
• Familiarity with multiple scripting languages.
• Ability to develop deep‑fake artifacts for testing.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.

Salary range is based on Johns Hopkins University’s guidelines; the actual compensation will vary based on experience, location, and other factors.

Johns Hopkins offers a comprehensive total rewards package supporting health, life, career, and retirement benefits.

The Johns Hopkins University is committed to equal opportunity for its faculty, staff, and students. The university does not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender, marital status, pregnancy, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Successful candidates will be subject to a pre‑employment background check including education verification.

Johns Hopkins University strongly encourages, but no longer requires, at least one dose of the COVID‑19 vaccine (except for the School of Medicine). COVID‑19 vaccine requirements may be waived on religious or medical grounds upon request. All faculty, staff, and students must receive the seasonal flu vaccine.