Senior Research Scientist - Advanced Computing Lab

Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Retirement plan

Tuition benefits

Paid time off

Transit pass

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University’s SEI AI Division is seeking a senior researcher to lead novel AI and advanced computing initiatives for defense and national security. You will guide interdisciplinary teams to translate research into prototype, mission-ready capabilities for government customers, and conduct rapid prototyping and evaluation.

The role emphasizes mentoring staff, publishing findings, and shaping the division’s strategic research agenda with senior leadership.

Qualifications

• Publication track record in AI/ML research.
• Experience leading interdisciplinary research projects and mentors.

Responsibilities

• Lead novel research in advanced computing and applied ML.
• Turn research into prototype operational capabilities for government customers.
• Conduct rapid prototyping to demonstrate technologies.

Skills

C/C++

Python

Verilog/VHDL

research leadership

funding proposals

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science

MS in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science

Tools

ML/DL frameworks

FPGA tooling

Job description

The SEI AI Division At the SEI AI Division, we conduct research in applied artificial intelligence and the engineering challenges related to the practical design and implementation of AI technologies and systems. We currently lead a community-wide movement to mature the discipline of AI Engineering for Defense and National Security. As our government customers adopt AI and machine learning to provide leap-ahead mission capabilities, we Build real-world, mission-scale AI capabilities through solving practical engineering problems Discover and define the processes, practices, and tools to support operationalizing AI for human-centered, robust, secure, and scalable mission capabilities Prepare our customers to be ready for the unique challenges of adopting, deploying, using, and maintaining AI capabilities Identify and investigate emerging AI and AI‑adjacent technologies that are rapidly transforming the technology landscape Are you creative, curious, and collaborative? Do you enjoy doing meaningful and complex work? Are you interested in making a difference by bringing innovation to government organizations and beyond?

Duties

• Lead novel research in advanced computing and applied machine learning.
• Lead interdisciplinary teams to turn research results into prototype operational capabilities for government customers and stakeholders.
• Conduct rapid prototyping to demonstrate and evaluate technologies in relevant environments.
• Test and evaluate new and novel systems for performance and usability.
• Collaborate with researchers, developers, engineers, designers, technical leads, campus labs, and our government customers to understand challenges, needs, and potential solutions.
• Mentor and teach junior staff, lead design sessions, and establish technical norms for the division.
• Explore the latest advanced hardware, including FPGAs, CGRAs, TPUs, and emergent technologies such as neuromorphic and analog processors.
• Work with division leadership and colleagues to plan, develop, expand, and carry out an overall research strategy, and influence the national research agenda regarding future technology.
• Develop and deliver compelling technical presentations for diverse audiences, tailor content for varied stakeholders, speak at conferences and workshops, and publish in pertinent peer‑reviewed journals.

Requirements

• BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline with ten (10) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with eight (8) years of experience; OR PhD with five (5) years of experience.
• Able to travel to the Arlington SEI office, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings on occasion.
• Moderate (25%) travel outside of your home location.
• You will be subject to a background check investigation and will need to obtain and maintain a Department of War security clearance.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• A published track record of conducting research and applying scientific methods.
• Mastery of C/C++, Python, Verilog/VHDL, and/or other pertinent languages and software tools and frameworks.
• Experience leading research projects and collaborating across research teams and mentoring other researchers.
• Experience writing and delivering successful research proposals to funding agencies and leading the resulting projects.
• Experience working with Department of War and Intelligence Community.
• Familiarity with emerging trends and opportunities in industry and government.

Benefits

• Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well‑deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
• Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?

Job Details

• Location: Pittsburgh, PA
• Job Function: Software/Applications Development/Engineering
• Position Type: Staff – Regular Full Time/Part time Full time
• Pay Basis: Salary
• More Information: Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. View a listing of employee benefits.

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

We are committed to providing an accessible experience throughout our recruitment process. If you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation at any stage of the application, interview, or hiring process, please contact Equal Opportunity Services by email at [e-mail] or by phone at 412-268-5072.

For technical assistance, email HR Services or call 412-268-4600.

Prospective Employee Disclosures