Principal Cyber (Hardware) Researcher

iO Associates; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence consultancy is seeking a Cyber (Hardware) Researcher to conduct cutting-edge research in vulnerability discovery and rapid prototyping. The ideal candidate must hold DV clearance and possess strong programming skills, alongside experience in managing research projects. This role supports business development and technical solutions in complex cyber domains.

Qualifications

• DV-Clearance is mandatory for this role.
• Strong communication skills are critical.
• Proven problem-solving and analytical skills required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct deep-drive research in vulnerability discovery.
• Design and build rapid prototypes.
• Document methodologies and findings for stakeholders.
• Manage research teams and report on progress.
• Support business development and proposal writing.

Skills

Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python

Strong working knowledge of Linux-based systems

Excellent communication skills

Solid understanding of networking concepts

Analytical and problem-solving capabilities

Experience in rapid prototyping

Managing research projects

Tools

Raspberry Pi

Arduino

Ghidra

IDA Pro

Binary Ninja

Job description

Cyber (Hardware) Researcher

Job Title: Cyber (Hardware) Researcher

Location: United Kingdom

Employment Type: Full-Time

Start Date: ASAP

Clearance: DV-Cleared

Role Summary:

Our Defence Clients Cyber Research Group (CRG) is looking for a Principal Cyber Researcher to conduct cutting‑edge research and development across multiple cyber domains.

As Cyber Researcher, you will drive technical investigations, design rapid prototypes, and uncover emerging threats and vulnerabilities. In addition to hands‑on research, our Principal Cyber Researcher will be involved in day‑to‑day CRG operations, help shape the team’s long‑term strategy, and support business development and bidding activities.

To be eligible for this role you must hold active DV clearance or be eligible for one.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct deep‑drive research in vulnerability discovery, reverse engineering, and embedded systems
• Design and build rapid prototypes to validate novel cyber capabilities and concepts
• Analyse network protocols and system behaviours to identify security weaknesses
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver research outcomes and technical solutions
• Document methodologies, findings, and recommendations for internal and external stakeholders
• Manage small research teams, track progress, and report to customers
• Contribute to CRG's strategic planning and operational management
• Support business development efforts, including proposal writing and technical briefings

Essential Skills and Experience:

• DV-Cleared
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python
• Strong working knowledge of Linux‑based systems, including command‑line tools and system configuration
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Solid understanding of networking concepts and protocols (e.g. TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, HTTP, ICMP)
• Demonstrated analytical and problem‑solving capabilities, with a methodical and inquisitive approach to technical problems
• Experience in rapid prototyping using technologies such as Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and virtualised environments
• Proven track record of managing research projects from concept through delivery

Desirable Experience:

• Hardware prototyping, PCB design and microcontroller programming.
• Experience using penetration testing or red team tools.
• Reverse engineering using Ghidra, IDA Pro, or Binary Ninja.
• Vulnerability research, including exploit development and mitigation bypass techniques.
• Embedded software development on ARM, AVR, PowerPC or MIPS platforms.
• Experience with Radio Frequency (RF) systems, Software Defined Radios (SDRs), 2G/4G/5G, including tools like GNU Radio, Osmocom, srsRAN or USRP.
• Network engineering experience in home lab or professional environments.

Next Steps:

• If interested, send your most recent CV to: so that we can speak in more detail.

#SecurityCleared #Defence #Researcher