Associate Data Scientist

Carnegie Mellon University•Pittsburgh, PA

About The Position

Data Scientists at the SEI use advanced statistics, data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to help government and industry clients research and solve cybersecurity challenges. In this role, you will work with customers to identify problems that may benefit from advanced statistical techniques, plan and develop prototype solutions, and build final products. You will collaborate with cybersecurity professionals and university faculty on technologies that may influence national cybersecurity strategy. The role also involves co-authoring research proposals, conducting studies, and presenting findings to Department of War sponsors and at academic conferences. The team works across areas including generative AI and large language models, computer vision, multimodal AI, agentic AI, and assurance of AI systems. Other projects include developing metrics and experimental designs for large-scale cybersecurity research programs, human-in-the-loop machine learning solutions, and classifiers to identify security vulnerabilities. The position is based in Arlington, Virginia, or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and includes modest travel to support the SEI’s mission.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in data science, machine learning, computer science, statistics, or a related highly quantitative discipline with three years of experience, or an equivalent combination of training or experience; alternatively, a master’s degree in one of these fields with one year of experience, or a Ph.D. in one of these fields.
Experience in predictive modeling, data science, and/or AI 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 (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/LLMs; causal inference, uplift modeling, or synthetic controls; modern ML frameworks; LLM or agentic workflows; model deployment; or big data.
Willingness to complete modest travel to various locations.
Must undergo 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, then build final products.
Collaborate with cybersecurity professionals and university faculty to develop technologies.
Co-author research proposals and execute studies.
Present findings to Department of War sponsors and at academic conferences.
Contribute to research and development in areas such as generative AI, large language models, computer vision, multimodal AI, agentic AI, and AI assurance.
Craft metrics and experimental designs for large-scale cybersecurity research programs.
Develop human-in-the-loop machine learning solutions and classifiers to identify security vulnerabilities.
Complete modest travel to various locations in support of the SEI’s mission.