Research Associates - National Security Initiatives

Job Summary

The Center for National Security Initiatives at CU Boulder is encouraging applications for Postdoctoral Associates, Research Associates, and Senior Research Associates across multiple domains to support the growth of the campus's National Security research enterprise. These positions will report to leadership within the Center for National Security Initiatives (NSI), within the Research & Innovation Office (RIO). Candidates will develop groundbreaking research associated with the National Security enterprise, identify new sponsored research opportunities with Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community partners, and prepare and execute strategic proposals in collaboration with other CU Boulder faculty and NSI researchers.

The focus is on strategic development and applied research in the National Security space.

Requires expertise in assured algorithms, control theory, computer vision, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML). The candidate will address challenges such as swarming, networked autonomy, human-machine teaming, perception, and localization.

Requires applied research expertise in the design, attack, and defense of cyber systems—including networks, information systems, AI/ML analytics, computer architecture, human-machine teaming, automation, applied cryptology, CAD of digital and analog devices, and semiconductor fabrication. The candidate will focus on ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information for U.S. space assets, critical infrastructure, and global communications systems.

Requires applying analytics to terrestrial and space data sets, fusing large data sets to produce actionable information. The candidate will develop algorithms and applications using AI/ML, computer vision, and state-of-the-art techniques to support decision‑making tools in the national security arena.

Requires experience in human‑machine teaming, interfaces, virtual augmentation, human performance, training, and/or education. Familiarity with AI‑enabled systems for enhanced decision‑making is highly desirable.

Requires expertise in developing and applying computational tools for hypersonic vehicle performance, aerothermodynamics, materials, structures, propulsion, observables, and mission design.

Requires understanding of space‑based ISR application to find, fix, and track forces, and battle damage assessment. The candidate will address challenges in automation, sensor fusion, latency, and data analytics.

Requires knowledge of GNSS science, PNT algorithms, and technologies for GPS‑limited/denied environments. The candidate will develop high‑precision, low SWaP‑C solutions for resilient operations in DoD environments.

Requires development of quantum‑based capabilities for sensing, computing, and communications across all security domains. The candidate will collaborate with quantum scientists to accelerate product transition.

Requires RF communications, spectrum operations, and electronic warfare expertise, addressing DoD challenges in power amplification, filter design, integrated circuit design, apertures, wireless propagation modeling, and AI/ML applied to RF design.

Requires astrodynamics, sensor tasking, state estimation, GNC, and space weather specialization. The candidate will handle information fusion, perception, and interference mitigation for space operations and anomaly characterization.

Requires design, analysis, and operations of space systems, including space systems engineering, ground systems, AI/ML automation, and ISA. Successful applicants will aid dynamic space operations and command‑and‑control for LEO/VLEO missions.

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