Computer Security Research

The Computer Security Section, Code 5542, in the Center for High Assurance Computer Systems at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) develops advanced technology to help protect Navy and Department of Defense information systems against cyber threats. Researchers and engineers work closely with other agencies, sponsors, and the fleet to identify deficiencies in the state of the art and conduct research to address unmet Navy and Marine needs. The section usually focusses on basic and applied research. Our current area of interest includes cyber-physical systems security, tactical network security, blockchain technology, machine learning, and automated cyber response.

The researcher position in Code 5542 will conduct research in computer security topics of interest to the Navy. Tasks will include identifying relevant research topics, writing proposals to sponsors, leading a team to perform the research, publication of the results, and supporting transition of technologies to be deployed. The everyday tasks of the position will be similar to that of researchers in corporate labs or faculty researchers in academia (minus the teaching duties). NRL serves as the corporate lab for the Navy and the Marine Corp. As such, research conducted at NRL will focus on the unique requirements of the military especially in topics neglected by the private sector and academia. Sponsors for projects are usually other government agencies such as the Office of Naval Research, Department of Defense, and DARPA.

We are seeking both junior and senior researchers. Small research teams will be composed of researchers, software developers, administrators, and collaborators from universities and other labs. Senior research will lead research projects as principle investigators. Junior researchers can work on existing projects while establishing their own areas of interest and research portfolio. Further education will be supported by both NRL and the section.

Successful candidates should have deep expertise in computer security, interest in conducting cutting edge research, and desire to work in the Navy/defense/government space. A proven track record of research including academic publications in computer science and more specifically in the computer security field will be highly desirable. Research experience in academia as well as industry will be considered.