Associate Data Scientist

Carnegie Mellon University•Pittsburgh, PA

About The Position

Data Scientists at the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) use advanced statistics, data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to help government and industry clients research and solve cybersecurity challenges. The Associate Data Scientist works with customers to identify problems that could benefit from advanced statistical techniques, plan and develop prototype solutions, and build final products. The role involves collaborating with cybersecurity professionals and university faculty, co-authoring research proposals, conducting studies, and presenting findings to Department of War sponsors and at academic conferences. Projects span generative AI and large language models, computer vision, multimodal AI, agentic AI, and assurance of AI systems. Other work includes designing metrics and experiments for large-scale cybersecurity research programs, developing human-in-the-loop machine learning solutions, and building classifiers to identify security vulnerabilities. The position is based in Arlington, Virginia, or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and requires modest travel. Employees must complete a background check and be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of War security clearance.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in data science, machine learning, computer science, statistics, or a related highly quantitative discipline and three years of experience, or an equivalent combination of training or experience; alternatively, a master’s degree in one of these disciplines and one year of experience, or a Ph.D. in one of these disciplines.
Experience in predictive modeling, data science, and/or artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Deep understanding of statistical modeling techniques and advanced data analytics.
Proficiency with at least one mathematical or statistical programming package, such as R, Python libraries including NumPy, SciPy, pandas, or Polars, or MATLAB.
Innovative and inquisitive approach, with the ability to imagine novel analytical solutions to problems.
Ability to thrive in a multidisciplinary environment.
Strong communication skills.
Expertise in one or more of the following: recommendation systems; time-series forecasting; NLP or LLMs; causal inference, uplift modeling, or synthetic controls; modern machine-learning frameworks; LLM or agentic workflows; model deployment; or big data.
Willingness to complete modest travel to support the SEI’s mission.
Must complete a background check and be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of War security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Experience in cybersecurity and privacy.
Experience in U.S. Government work and/or with FFRDCs, UARCs, or National Labs.
Demonstrated ability to learn new concepts and grow into new areas of work.

Responsibilities

Work with customers to identify problems where advanced statistical techniques can help.
Plan and develop prototype solutions and build final products.
Collaborate with cybersecurity professionals and university faculty on technology development.
Co-author research proposals and execute studies.
Present findings to Department of War sponsors and at academic conferences.
Develop metrics and experimental designs for large-scale cybersecurity research programs.
Develop human-in-the-loop machine learning solutions.
Build classifiers to identify security vulnerabilities.
Travel modestly to various locations in support of the SEI’s mission.