Research Scientist

Overview

Shape the future of advanced research—turning ideas into mission impact. Prime Solutions Group (PSG) is seeking a Staff Research Scientist / Engineer to conduct advanced, independent research and help define technical direction across high-impact programs supporting U.S. national security. This is a senior individual-contributor role with technical leadership responsibilities, ideal for a researcher who thrives at the intersection of fundamental research, applied innovation, and real-world transition
.

• Lead independent research investigations within one or more technical domains; formulate novel hypotheses and research directions.
• Design, execute, and analyze complex experiments, simulations, or studies using advanced data, tools, and methodologies.
• Develop new models, algorithms, methodologies, or frameworks within your area of expertise.
• Publish peer-reviewed research, present findings at major conferences and workshops, and engage with the broader research community.
• Mentor junior researchers, scientists, and interns; review technical work and provide guidance.
• Lead technical sub-teams or research thrusts within larger multi-year programs.
• Collaborate with internal engineering teams to transition research into prototypes, demonstrations, or deployable capabilities.
• Contribute to proposal development, including technical writing, research planning, and capture support.
• Evaluate, adopt, or develop new research tools, platforms, and experimental approaches.
• Build and maintain collaborations with external laboratories, universities, industry partners, and government stakeholders.
• Support intellectual property development, including invention disclosures and patenting efforts as appropriate.

• U.S. Citizenship
• Active Top Secret Clearance (or higher)
• PhD in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (e.g., AI/ML, Physics, Mathematics, Biology, Systems Engineering, Computer Science, or related field)
• 7+ years of post-PhD research experience or equivalent demonstrated expertise
• Strong record of peer-reviewed publications and technical contributions
• Demonstrated ability to design, lead, and execute complex research efforts
• Proven technical leadership, including mentoring or guiding junior staff
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills across technical and executive audiences
• Experience leading or contributing to multi-disciplinary, multi-year research programs

• Experience securing external research funding or leading proposal efforts
• Track record of balancing fundamental research with applied outcomes
• Experience leading cross-institutional or cross-industry collaborations
• Familiarity with government-funded R&D environments (DoD, IC, federal labs)
• Experience transitioning research into prototypes or operational systems
• Knowledge of intellectual property protection and patenting processes

At PSG, you’re not just conducting research—you’re shaping the future of digital engineering and national security. We combine the agility of a small company with the impact of high-visibility government programs. We offer:

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
• Professional development and tuition assistance
• A collaborative, mission-driven culture
• Direct influence over technical direction and research strategy
• Direct impact on critical national security challenges

Bring your curiosity, leadership, and research expertise to PSG—and help turn breakthrough ideas into mission-ready capabilities.

Salary range starts at $142,000 with the potential for higher compensation based on experience, skills, and mission needs.