Computer Scientist – Systems Security Research

Position Overview

Riverside Research’s Secure and Resilient Systems group seeks a Computer Scientist with a focus on systems security research. We're looking for someone with deep technical expertise, a passion for solving challenging problems, and the ability to lead technical efforts while collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement innovative solutions for systems software security challenges.
• Prototype and evaluate features within large software projects (e.g., Linux, Xen, QEMU, LLVM).
• Develop tools and research prototypes using C/C++, Rust, Python, Assembly, and related technologies.
• Lead technical investigations, mentor teammates, and help shape research direction.
• Author technical proposals, white papers, and publications.
• Communicate research findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Collaborate across engineering and research teams to solve complex technical problems.

Qualifications

• Required Qualifications:
• Thesis-based M.S. with 3+ years of relevant experience, or Ph.D., in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Demonstrated research experience through a graduate thesis, publications, or significant applied research projects.
• Strong systems programming skills with C/C++, Python, and Assembly; knowledge of operating systems, computer architecture, and compilers.
• Experience contributing to large software projects using modern development practices, including version control, debugging, and build systems.
• Ability to lead technical efforts by breaking down complex problems, mentoring others, and driving solutions from concept to implementation.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to work effectively across technical and non-technical teams.
• Must be eligible to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience leading research or engineering projects.
• Experience with offensive and defensive cybersecurity tools.
• Familiarity with seL4, Rust, LLVM, AFL++, or similar advanced systems software technologies.

Global Compensation

This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors. $95,000 - $200,000

Closing Statement

Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission. Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees. Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other job-related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a not-for-profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran’s status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.