Computer Scientist - Systems Security Research

Riverside Research; Lexington (MA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Riverside Research in Lexington, MA is seeking a Computer Scientist specializing in systems security research. You will contribute across the research lifecycle—from ideation and proposal development to prototyping, experimentation, and technology transition.

The role emphasizes deep technical work on systems software, architecture, and related areas, with collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. Security clearance eligibility (Top Secret) is required.

Qualifications

• Thesis-based MS with 3+ years of relevant experience, or PhD, in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field. Equivalent systems research experience may be considered.
• 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.

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.

Skills

Systems programming

Communication skills

Education

MS or PhD in CS/CE/EE or equivalent systems research

Tools

Git

LLVM

QEMU

Linux

Job description

Computer Scientist - Systems Security Research

Location: US-MA-Lexington

ID: 2026-4299

Category: Research & Development

Position Type: Full Time Salary

Riverside Overview

Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the country's most challenging technical problems.

All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship

Position Overview

Riverside Research's Secure and Resilient Systems group seeks a Computer Scientist with a focus on systems security research.

Riverside Research's Secure and Resilient Systems group is seeking a computer scientist to conduct applied research in systems security. 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.

In this role, you'll contribute throughout the research lifecycle-from ideation and proposal development to prototyping, experimentation, and technology transition. Research areas include systems software (e.g., Linux, RTOSs, secure hypervisors), computer architecture, compilers, hardware security, and program analysis. Familiarity with areas such as cryptography, formal methods, or reverse engineering is a plus.

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

• 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. Equivalent systems research experience may be considered.
• 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.
• Existing or previous U.S. security clearance.

Global Comp

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

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.