Senior Cryptocurrency Intelligence Scientist

Senior Cryptocurrency Intelligence Scientist at elliptic

About the role

Become a key member of Elliptic's Intelligence team, where your expertise in data science will be pivotal in analyzing blockchain activities. This position is dedicated to uncovering intricate patterns of illicit activities within cryptocurrency transactions. You will establish yourself as an authority in on-chain attribution and threat analysis, significantly contributing to the intelligence data that fuels Elliptic's innovative solutions.

• Location:
  
  Washington Office
• Engagement:
  Full-time
• Compensation:
  Estimated base salary between $175,000 and $215,000
• Team:
  Intelligence

• Acquire an in-depth understanding of both identity and non-identity indicators to effectively characterize on-chain threats, focusing on behavioral trends, transaction timings, routing practices, bridge utilization, and interactions with smart contracts.
• Spearhead intricate research projects and investigations from inception to conclusion, ensuring that findings are communicated clearly to clients, partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Evaluate Elliptic's coverage of attribution concerning various threats and steer intelligence collection initiatives to fill critical gaps.
• Develop and implement processes and tools that empower analysts and data scientists to create straightforward heuristics, including thorough documentation, peer reviews, and monitoring for any changes.
• Construct and advocate for a well-informed viewpoint on the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency, criminal methodologies, and obfuscation strategies, translating these insights into intelligence priorities.
• Summarize research outcomes into comprehensive reports, briefings, and marketing content, tailoring the detail and presentation for various audiences.
• Collaborate closely with the Principal Cryptocurrency Intelligence Scientist and Professional Services team to deliver actionable intelligence to governmental partners and the cryptocurrency sector.
• Cultivate strong internal relationships within Elliptic and establish connections with external stakeholders in the blockchain intelligence and financial crime research sectors.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior team members, sharing your technical and analytical knowledge to uphold high standards of intelligence quality.

• Solid grasp of data science principles, with expertise in SQL and Python for conducting independent analytical tasks.
• Proven, expert-level experience across multiple blockchain platforms, including both layer 1 and layer 2 networks, along with hands-on experience in cross-chain cryptocurrency transactions and self-custody practices.
• Proficiency as an intelligence professional, with a keen understanding of cognitive biases, the application of structured analytic techniques, and the ability to communicate uncertainty effectively.
• Strong communication abilities to convey complex technical subjects to a wide range of audiences.
• Capability to obtain security clearance in either the UK or the US.
• Demonstrated proficiency in utilizing AI tools and methodologies for intelligence analysis, including enhancing data processing, identifying patterns, developing heuristics, and drafting written materials.

• Advanced degree in a technical or intelligence-related discipline.
• Background in a formal intelligence environment, such as law enforcement, governmental agencies, or academic research.
• Experience in commercial or research roles involving cryptocurrencies, particularly in complex transaction tracing, demixing, and cross-chain attribution.
• Familiarity with public-sector entities, including law enforcement or regulatory organizations.
• Understanding of key threat typologies, such as theft, scams, ransomware, state-sponsored activities, financing of terrorism, and evasion of sanctions.

• Proficient in SQL
• Skilled in Python
• Familiar with AI tools for intelligence analysis

• Embrace a hybrid work model, allowing for up to 90 days of remote work each year from nearly any location.
• Benefit from a $650 budget for setting up your home office.
• Access an annual budget of $1,000 dedicated to learning and development opportunities.
• Enjoy 25 days of annual leave in addition to 8 US public holidays, plus an extra day off to celebrate your birthday.
• Eligible employees can take advantage of 16 weeks of fully paid parental leave, applicable to all types of parenthood and genders.
• Receive comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance with substantial contributions from the company for you and your dependents (options include Tufts, Kaiser, Aetna, UHC, and Blue Shield of CA).
• Participate in a 401k plan with company matching.
• Access mental health support through Spill.