Research Associates - National Security Initiatives

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Boulder (CO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and retirement plans

Paid time off

Tuition assistance

ECO Pass for local transit

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is seeking Postdoctoral and Research Associates to support the National Security research efforts at CU Boulder. Candidates will work on strategic research initiatives and collaborate with faculty across various domains including cybersecurity, AI, and aerospace.

Successful applicants will have a Ph.D. in a relevant field, significant experience, and a passion for enhancing national security through innovative research. Salary ranges vary by position, reflecting the importance of these roles.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in relevant fields required.
• 3+ years research experience for Research Associate.
• 6+ years for Senior Research Associate.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute research proposals.
• Lead technical research projects.
• Engage with government and industry sponsors.

Skills

Expertise in Machine Learning

Control Theory

AI/ML Analytics

Computational Tools Development

Education

Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or relevant field

Job description

Job Summary

The Center for National Security Initiatives at CU Boulder is encouraging applications for Postdoctoral Associates, Research Associates, and Senior Research Associates across multiple domains to support the growth of the campus's National Security research enterprise. These positions will report to leadership within the Center for National Security Initiatives (NSI), within the Research & Innovation Office (RIO). Candidates will develop groundbreaking research associated with the National Security enterprise, identify new sponsored research opportunities with Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community partners, and prepare and execute strategic proposals in collaboration with other CU Boulder faculty and NSI researchers. The focus is on strategic development and applied research in the National Security space.

Focus Areas

Autonomous Systems

Requires expertise in assured algorithms, control theory, computer vision, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML). The candidate will address challenges such as swarming, networked autonomy, human-machine teaming, perception, and localization.

Cybersecurity

Requires applied research expertise in the design, attack, and defense of cyber systems—including networks, information systems, AI/ML analytics, computer architecture, human-machine teaming, automation, applied cryptology, CAD of digital and analog devices, and semiconductor fabrication. The candidate will focus on ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information for U.S. space assets, critical infrastructure, and global communications systems.

Geospatial Data Analytics

Requires applying analytics to terrestrial and space data sets, fusing large data sets to produce actionable information. The candidate will develop algorithms and applications using AI/ML, computer vision, and state-of-the-art techniques to support decision‑making tools in the national security arena.

Human‑Computer Interaction / Human Factors

Requires experience in human‑machine teaming, interfaces, virtual augmentation, human performance, training, and/or education. Familiarity with AI‑enabled systems for enhanced decision‑making is highly desirable.

Hypersonic Systems

Requires expertise in developing and applying computational tools for hypersonic vehicle performance, aerothermodynamics, materials, structures, propulsion, observables, and mission design.

Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)

Requires understanding of space‑based ISR application to find, fix, and track forces, and battle damage assessment. The candidate will address challenges in automation, sensor fusion, latency, and data analytics.

Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT)

Requires knowledge of GNSS science, PNT algorithms, and technologies for GPS‑limited/denied environments. The candidate will develop high‑precision, low SWaP‑C solutions for resilient operations in DoD environments.

Quantum Technologies

Requires development of quantum‑based capabilities for sensing, computing, and communications across all security domains. The candidate will collaborate with quantum scientists to accelerate product transition.

Radiofrequency (RF) Engineering

Requires RF communications, spectrum operations, and electronic warfare expertise, addressing DoD challenges in power amplification, filter design, integrated circuit design, apertures, wireless propagation modeling, and AI/ML applied to RF design.

Space Domain Awareness

Requires astrodynamics, sensor tasking, state estimation, GNC, and space weather specialization. The candidate will handle information fusion, perception, and interference mitigation for space operations and anomaly characterization.

Space Systems

Requires design, analysis, and operations of space systems, including space systems engineering, ground systems, AI/ML automation, and ISA. Successful applicants will aid dynamic space operations and command‑and‑control for LEO/VLEO missions.

Equal Opportunity Employment

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute on research proposals, key tasks, and deliverables for DoD, IC, and aerospace/defense industry customers.
• Build a nationally recognized research program that strategically supports the NSI missions and the National Security enterprise.
• Provide technical leadership of research projects or sub‑tasks and coordinate across academic departments and research groups for interdisciplinary efforts.
• Summarize results and provide required documentation and SW/HW deliverables to sponsors.
• Engage government and industry sponsors, with NSI staff support, to shape strategic research opportunities and win contracts.
• Understand and communicate key challenges and R&D priorities of DoD and national security organizations to develop the CU Boulder applied research portfolio.
• Recommend prioritization of new sponsored research opportunities to the NSI leadership team.
• Establish and leverage a professional network with key customers, influencers, and decision makers in the national security community to gain insights into strategic direction, R&D priorities, budget allocations, and plans.

Eligibility & Requirements

• Position is limited to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.
• Travel out‑of‑state will be required.
• Irregular work hours, including evenings and weekends, may be required.

Salary Ranges

• Postdoctoral Associate: $70,000 to $90,000 annually
• Research Associate: $85,000 to $150,000 annually
• Principal Research Associate: $145,000 to $190,000 annually
• Senior Principal Research Associate: $185,000 to $210,000 annually

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we support employees' holistic health and well‑being. The benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; paid time off; tuition assistance for employees and dependents; an ECO Pass for local transit. Additional perks are available through the CU Advantage program.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a field relevant to the focus area.
• Research Associate: Minimum three years of academic, aerospace/defense industry, or government research experience.
• Senior Research Associate: Minimum six years of experience in academia, aerospace/defense industry, or government research.
• Proven expertise in applying research within the specified focus areas.

Desired Competencies

• Demonstrated record of success and credibility in national security and academic communities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• High‑level critical thinking and organizational abilities.
• Ability to work within complex, matrixed structures across colleges, university administration, and external partners.

Additional Preferences

• Experience in collaborative, interdisciplinary roles at or with academic or research institutions.
• Track record leading research efforts for DoD or aerospace/defense industry.
• Program management, contracting, or business development experience in the federal government or industry.
• Active or prior U.S. security clearance, or the ability to acquire clearance.