AI Security Researcher

Job Summary

The CERT Division of the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is seeking applicants for the AI Security Researcher role. The position involves pioneering research in AI security, working on vulnerabilities in AI systems, and influencing national AI security strategy.

About the Role

The CERT Division was established in response to the Morris worm in 1988 and has since become a leader in cybersecurity research. The AI Security Researcher will collaborate with a team of security experts to advance the state of the art in AI security.

Responsibilities

• Develop state-of-the-art approaches for analyzing the robustness of AI systems.
• Apply these approaches to understand vulnerabilities in AI systems and how attackers adapt their tactics.
• Reverse engineer malicious code in support of high-impact customers.
• Design and develop new analysis methods and tools.
• Work to identify and address emerging and complex threats to AI systems.
• Study and influence the AI security and vulnerability disclosure ecosystems.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of tools, techniques, and processes developed by industry and the AI security research community.
• Uncover and shape fundamental assumptions underlying current best practices in AI security.
• Develop thought models, tools, and data sets to characterize threats and vulnerabilities in AI systems, and publish results.
• Aid in the testing, evaluation, and transition of technologies developed by government-funded research programs.
• Identify opportunities to apply AI to improve existing cybersecurity research.

Requirements

• BS in machine learning, cybersecurity, statistics, or related discipline with 8 years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with 5 years of experience; OR PhD in the same fields with 2 years of experience.
• Deep interest in AI/ML and cybersecurity with a passion for intellectual curiosity and making an impact beyond your organization.
• Practical experience with applying cybersecurity knowledge toward vulnerability research, analysis, disclosure, or mitigation.
• Experience with advising on a range of security topics based on research and expert opinion.
• Familiarity with implementing and applying AI/ML techniques to solve practical problems.
• Familiarity with common AI/ML software packages and tools (e.g., Numpy, Pytorch, Tensorflow, ART).
• Familiarity with reverse engineering tools (e.g., NSA Ghidra, IDA Pro).
• Experience with Python, C/C++, or low-level programming.
• Experience developing frameworks, methodologies, or assessments to evaluate the effectiveness and robustness of technologies.
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written), particularly regarding technical communications with non-experts.
• Ability to mentor and cross-train others and share knowledge within the broader community.
• Travel to various locations to support the SEI's overall mission (5%).

Qualifications

• BS in machine learning, cybersecurity, statistics, or related discipline with 8 years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with 5 years of experience; OR PhD in the same fields with 2 years of experience.
• BS in machine learning, cybersecurity, statistics, or related discipline with 8 years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with 5 years of experience; OR PhD in the same fields with 2 years of experience.
• BS in machine learning, cybersecurity, statistics, or related discipline with 8 years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with 5 years of experience; OR PhD in the same fields with 2 years of experience.

Benefits

• 8% monthly contribution for retirement, without having to contribute yourself.
• Tuition benefits for you and your dependent children.
• Flexible work arrangements and paid parental and military leave.
• Annual professional development opportunities; attend conferences and training or obtain a certification and get reimbursed for membership in professional societies.

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Position Type

Staff – Regular Full time/Part time Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information

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Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.