Formal Methods Postdoctoral Research Associate

Idaho National Laboratory • Idaho Falls, ID

10d • Onsite

About The Position

The Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in Computer Science or comparable discipline for the Infrastructure Modeling and Tool Development department. This postdoctoral researcher will focus on formal methods and provable security for critical infrastructure systems. The Postdoctoral Formal Methods Researcher will design, formally verify, implement, and evaluate a systems engineering workbench focused on ensuring provably correct operator-AI interaction policies and communication protocols for safety-critical autonomous systems. The researcher will work within a multidisciplinary team, balancing independent research contributions with close team collaboration. This position presents an opportunity to apply rigorous formal methods to high-consequence real-world domains, such as autonomous control systems for critical infrastructure. The position entails writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and presentation of research results at national and international conferences and meetings.

Requirements

• PhD in Computer Science or comparable disciplines.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Demonstrated experience conducting research in formal methods and provable security.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy "Q" security clearance, which requires U.S. Citizenship.

Nice To Haves

• Self-motivated but also take direction from other team members and peers.

Responsibilities

• Design, formally verify, implement, and evaluate a systems engineering workbench focused on ensuring provably correct operator-AI interaction policies and communication protocols for safety-critical autonomous systems.
• Work within a multidisciplinary team, balancing independent research contributions with close team collaboration.
• Apply rigorous formal methods to high-consequence real-world domains, such as autonomous control systems for critical infrastructure.
• Write scientific manuscripts for journal publication.
• Present research results at national and international conferences and meetings.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree