Principal Cyber Researcher - DV Cleared

Searchability; England; Hybrid; GBP 85,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A cybersecurity firm is seeking a Principal Cyber Researcher to lead technical investigations and manage research projects within national security. The role involves vulnerability discovery and prototype testing, requiring strong programming skills and Enhanced DV / UKIC clearance. Competitive salary, hybrid work with various benefits including additional holiday days and a bonus scheme.

Benefits

Hybrid Work Pattern

Early finish Fridays

25 days holiday + public holidays

Volunteering days

Contributory pension scheme

Discretionary bonus

Health Cashplan

Enhanced sick pay

Qualifications

• Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python.
• Strong knowledge of Linux systems.
• Solid understanding of networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, etc.).
• Proven experience managing research projects.
• Active Enhanced DV / UKIC Clearance required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct deep-dive research in vulnerability discovery.
• Design and implement rapid prototypes.
• Analyse network protocols to identify security weaknesses.
• Lead and manage small research teams.
• Document methodologies and findings.

Skills

C

C++

Python

Linux systems

Networking protocols

Analytical problem-solving

Excellent communication

Research project management

Tools

IDA Pro

Ghidra

Binary Ninja

Job description

Principal Cyber Researcher – National Security – Enhanced DV / UKIC Clearance

Salary:£85,000 - £100,000 + package

Location:Gloucester (Hybrid, ~1-2 days/week on-site)

Clearance:Must hold Enhanced DV / UKIC Clearance

About the Role

We’re seeking a Principal Cyber Researcher to lead advanced technical investigations, develop rapid prototypes, and uncover emerging cyber threats and vulnerabilities. This is a hands-on research role with added responsibility for shaping the team’s strategy, managing small research projects, and supporting business development and bidding efforts.

You’ll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative solutions, drive research outcomes, and influence the future direction of cyber capabilities in national security.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct deep-dive research in vulnerability discovery, reverse engineering, and embedded systems.
• Design and implement rapid prototypes to test novel cyber capabilities.
• Analyse network protocols and system behaviour to identify security weaknesses.
• Lead and manage small research teams, tracking progress and reporting to stakeholders.
• Document methodologies, findings, and recommendations clearly for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Support strategic planning, operational management, and business development initiatives.

Skills & Experience

• Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python.
• Strong knowledge of Linux systems, command-line tools, and system configuration.
• Solid understanding of networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, HTTP, ICMP).
• Rapid prototyping experience (e.g., Raspberry Pi, Arduino, virtualised environments).
• Analytical and methodical problem-solving approach.
• Proven experience managing research projects from concept to delivery.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Active Enhanced DV / UKIC Clearance

Desirable:Hardware prototyping, PCB design, embedded software development (ARM, AVR, PowerPC, MIPS), reverse engineering (IDA Pro, Ghidra, Binary Ninja), vulnerability research/exploit development, RF/SDR experience, penetration testing, and network engineering experience.

Benefits

• Hybrid/Remote Work Pattern - 1-2 days on-site per week
• 37-hour workweek with early finish Fridays
• 25 days holiday + public holidays, with buy/sell/rollover options
• Up to 5 days volunteering annually
• Contributory pension scheme (up to 10.5% contribution)
• Discretionary bonus scheme
• Life assurance 6x salary, Health Cashplan, Dental, Cycle to Work
• Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly policies

Apply

Submit your CV and contact details directly via the job advert.