AI Security Research Intern (Sept 2026 - May 2027)

Software Engineering Institute | Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University’s Software Engineering Institute in Pittsburgh is seeking an AI Security Research Intern to contribute to Threat Analysis activities. The role will engage in AI assurance, red-teaming, and forensics, supporting national security objectives while working with seasoned engineers and researchers.

Candidates must be working toward a degree in CS/CE/cybersecurity, be eligible to work in the United States, and join onsite at the SEI Pittsburgh office part-time in Fall 2026

Qualifications

• BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity, or related field and pursuing MS.
• Willingness to travel to SEI/CMU locations as needed.
• Eligible to work in the United States without Visa sponsorship.
• Able to work part-time during Fall 2026 and Spring 2027.
• Onsite at the SEI Pittsburgh office.

Responsibilities

• AI Assurance and security research tasks within the Threat Analysis Directorate.
• Red-teaming of AI systems to identify and mitigate risks.
• Documentation of results and findings for stakeholders.

Skills

AI/ML Fundamentals

Python Programming

Red Teaming

Documentation

Education

CS/CE/Cybersecurity

Pursuing MS

Tools

PyTorch

TensorFlow

ART

Job description

What We Do: The SEI helps advance software engineering principles and practices and serves as a national resource in software engineering, computer security, and process improvement. The SEI works closely with defense and government organizations, industry, and academia to continually improve software-intensive systems. Our core purpose is to help organizations improve software engineering capabilities and develop or acquire the right software, defect free, within budget and on time, every time.

Position Summary

The Threat Analysis Directorate is a group of security experts focused on advancing the state of the art and practice for analyzing, assuring, and countering software systems to enhance National Security. The AI Security Research Intern will contribute to a variety of core functions including:

• AI Assurance
• Red Teaming of AI Systems
• AI Digital Forensics, Response, and Mitigation

Requirements:

• BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related technical field and pursuing a MS in computer science or technical/engineering field
• Willingness to travel to various locations to support the SEI’s overall mission (including within the SEI and CMU community), unless travel interferes with DoW Cyber Service Academy (CSA) Scholar program activities at CMU.
• You will be subject to a background check and must be eligible to work in the United States without Visa sponsorship
• Able to work an internship part-time during Fall 2026 and Spring 2027
• Able to work onsite to the SEI Pittsburgh office

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to critically think and problem solve
• Understanding of AI/ML including Generative AI
• Basic proficiency with a programming language (preferably Python)
• Familiarity with common AI/ML software packages and tools (e.g. PyTorch, TensorFlow, ART)
• Ability to collaborate internally and externally with professional engineers and researchers
• Willingness to learn new technologies with cross-functional teams
• Knowledge of computer networking across multiple physical media
• Systems development skills to aid with the creation of new physical tools

Desired Experience:

• Experience with programming languages (preferably Python)
• Experience with red-teaming cyber and/or AI systems
• Basic understanding of cybersecurity concepts
• Experience with clearly documenting and communicating findings

Job Function Breakdown:

• AI Security Research and Development: 80%
• Documentation of Results: 20%

TOTAL = 100%

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

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Non-Exempt Graduate Students

Position Type

Student Worker – CMU student (Fixed Term)

Full time/Part time

Part time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information:

• Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
• Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
• Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
• Statement of Assurance