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Research Fellow- CyberAI

The Center for Security and Emerging Technology's (CSET) CyberAI project is currently seeking a Research Fellow to explore topics at the intersection of AI and cyber.

The nation’s dependencies upon a well-functioning cyber ecosystem has come into sharp focus as a range of cyber attacks have disrupted commerce, affected supply chains, and harmed individuals. AI techniques, specifically machine learning, offer an opportunity to uplift cyber defenses and improve the underlying security of this critical resource on which our society relies. However, there are numerous challenges to effecting these changes — some technical and others policy-related.

This Research Fellow will use a blend of analytic and technical skills to enable them to work in one or more of the following areas: assessing how AI techniques might improve cybersecurity, assessing how AI could alter future cyber operations and create new threats, examining the potential failure modes of related AI techniques, or researching the geostrategic implications of AI-enabled cyber operations. This Research Fellow will describe AI and cyber concepts in an accessible way for a non-technical audience while identifying associated challenges and making relevant policy recommendations.

Ideal Candidate:

The CyberAI Research Fellow will research machine learning (ML) applications for cyber. As such, a well qualified candidate demonstrates strong analytic skills and can write on technical subjects in a way that is clear, concise and understandable. They also understand the core elements of cybersecurity, including networking and the key elements of the MITRE ATT&CK framework.

Candidates should be familiar with the current state of the art within machine learning (e.g., transformers, reinforcement learning) and be able to digest the relevant research literature in order to identify policy relevant insights. Successful candidates have familiarity with the failure modes of various AI models in real-world situations, including those in which AI systems may be actively attacked (e.g., data poisoning, adversarial attacks, etc). Additionally, strong candidates have some experience working on the research and development of technology solutions and/or real world testing and evaluation of cyber or ML applications. Practical experience with machine learning or cybersecurity, such as automated vulnerability discovery and intrusion detection, are highly valued.

Responsibilities:

As a CyberAI Research Fellow, you will report to a Senior Fellow and be responsible for:

Developing, proposing, and leading research projects related to CSET’s CyberAI mission, both individually and in collaboration with other Research Fellows, Research Analysts, Data Research Analysts, Data Scientists, Senior Fellows and CSET leadership;
Conducting the analyses necessary to execute those research projects individually or as head of a project team of researchers and data scientists;
Producing written publications, both individually and as a coauthor;
Supervising and mentoring Research Analysts and student affiliates;
Developing and delivering presentations and briefs for policy-making audiences on topics related to emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced computing;
Collaborating with CSET data scientists in building out CSET’s data and document libraries;
Monitoring trends and developments in cybersecurity, AI, computing, and national security policy; and
Contributing to CSET’s organizational development, including by contributing to internal working groups, seminars, and discussions; and by supporting and mentoring colleagues.

Requirements:

Graduate (Master’s, JD, PhD) degree in relevant field
Competence in at least one (or both) of the following: AI/ML techniques or cybersecurity fundamentals
Ability to digest AI/ML research literature to identify policy relevant insights
At least 3 years experience in research and policy analysis, including familiarity with interpreting and visualizing data
Ability to conduct research, write, and manage others with limited need for supervision
Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Curiosity and enthusiasm
Collaborative attitude; demonstrated ability to work in teams
Project or team management experience
Proficiency with office productivity tools like Google Docs and Microsoft Office

Are you interested in contributing to the CyberAI Initiative, but not sure if you’re qualified for this specific role? Submit an application anyway! Please just be sure to mention this in your cover letter.

This position is based in the United States and offers no relocation assistance.

This position is not eligible for a specialty-occupation sponsorship and, accordingly, this position requires that all applicants be legally eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship from Georgetown University.

In general, CSET Research Fellows earn between $75,000 and $125,000 annually, commensurate with experience.

CSET’s Commitment to Fellows:

CSET is dedicated to providing full support to our staff through tailored professional development opportunities, flexible work arrangements and career coaching. As part of CSET’s mission to develop the next generation of decision-makers, Research Fellows will have opportunities to lead significant research projects, manage teams, brief government officials; interact with the media; collaborate with internal and external research partners; engage with policymakers and other stakeholders in government and the private sector; and contribute meaningfully to CSET’s research agenda and development as an organization. Research Fellows gain exposure to government and other public service career options; and develop people management competencies.

Application Instructions:

PLEASE NOTE: A complete application must include the following: