Senior Autonomous Systems Research Scientist — Mission-Critical AI

Software Engineering Institute | Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University is seeking a Senior Autonomous Systems Research Scientist to advance AI-enabled autonomous systems for government missions. You will design research programs, lead hands-on investigations, and mentor a team to deliver prototype capabilities for defense sponsors.

The role emphasizes collaboration across diverse researchers, engineers, and stakeholders, with expectations of strong communication, publication, and ongoing engagement with

Qualifications

• BS in Robotics, CS, ML, EE or related with 10 years of experience; MS with 8 years; PhD with 5 years.
• Background with ability to obtain DoW security clearance.
• On-site 5 days/week at SEI offices in Pittsburgh, PA or Arlington, VA; willing to travel up to 25%.

Responsibilities

• Lead novel research in applied machine learning and robotics.
• Lead interdisciplinary teams to turn research results into prototype operational capabilities for government customers.
• Collaborate with researchers, developers, engineers, designers, technical leads, campus labs, and government customers to understand challenges and solutions.
• Mentor and teach junior staff, lead technical sessions, and contribute to technical norms for the Lab.
• Maintain awareness of latest in AI-enabled autonomous systems and national security use cases.
• Develop and deliver technical presentations for diverse audiences, conferences, and peer‑reviewed journals.

Skills

Machine Learning

Robotics

Communication

Leadership

Education

PhD in related field

MS in related field

BS in related field

Tools

Python

C/C++

Job description

Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University is seeking a Senior Autonomous Systems Research Scientist to advance AI-enabled autonomous systems for government missions. You will design research programs, lead hands-on investigations, and mentor a team to deliver prototype capabilities for defense sponsors.

The role emphasizes collaboration across diverse researchers, engineers, and stakeholders, with expectations of strong communication, publication, and ongoing engagement with