2027 PhD Graduate – Vulnerability Researcher – Offensive Cyber Capabilities

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

2d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking motivated and enthusiastic engineers who are excited to dive deep into embedded systems, discover vulnerabilities, and build offensive cyber capabilities that solve real-world national security challenges. This role emphasizes innovation and operational impact, fostering a collaborative environment where varied expertise and technical ingenuity are valued. The position offers opportunities for growth alongside world-class experts while tackling complex problems.

Requirements

Graduating with a PhD in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
Excellent academic record with demonstrated mastery of fundamental topics such as computer architecture, operating systems, and data structures
Proficient with one or more programming languages
Experience using debuggers and reverse engineering tools such as Ghidra, IDA, and Binary Ninja
Love solving puzzles and are excited to learn new tools, platforms, and programming languages
Able to obtain an Interim Top Secret security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI with polygraph clearance
U.S. citizenship

Nice To Haves

Existing portfolio of research related to vulnerability analysis particularly applying AI systems to reverse engineering
Familiarity with assembly
Participation in hackathons, CTFs, or other relevant cybersecurity activities
Understanding of Unix/Linux operating systems and embedded systems development toolchains
Experience with hardware debugging interfaces, code security mechanisms and their weaknesses, hardware diagnostic tools, and signal/protocol analysis
Possess an active TS/SCI clearance with full scope polygraph

Responsibilities

Create and use cutting-edge techniques for automating reverse engineering and vulnerability analysis
Cultivate deep technical expertise of software, firmware, and hardware platforms
Develop exploits against bespoke embedded systems
Collaborate with government sponsors and operators to build mission-aligned capabilities
Deepen expertise by working with reverse engineering experts
Widen expertise by engaging with experts in other fields as problems intersect other technical domains
Present research to team members, APL management, government decision makers, and the larger cybersecurity community in academia and industry