Research Scientist - System Security Researcher

Secure Resilient Systems and Technology group 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.

If you would like to pursue your passion for cutting‑edge research and work on things that truly matter at a place that combines problems of pressing national importance with MIT’s culture of academic excellence, abundance of resources, and superior work‑life balance, apply here to learn more.

• 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.

To thrive in this role, you should have:

• APhD in Computer Security, System Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
  • Alternatively, a Master’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.

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…