Staff Scientist - Systems Analyst

MIT Lincoln Laboratory; Lexington (MA); On-site; USD 145,200 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans

MIT-funded pension

Matching 401(k)

Paid leave

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

MIT Lincoln Laboratory in Lexington, MA is seeking a highly motivated Staff Scientist – Systems Analyst. This role involves implementing first-principles models and collaborating on defense systems design recommendations. Ideal candidates should have a doctorate in a relevant field or a Master’s with significant experience, along with strong presentation skills. The role supports critical homeland protection initiatives.

Benefits include comprehensive health plans, a pension, and ample paid leave. Salary ranges from $145,200 to $220,000 depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, or a related discipline.
• Ability to quickly learn new technical areas.
• Strong presentation skills to explain complex concepts.

Responsibilities

• Implement models based on first principles and advanced data analysis techniques.
• Develop a comprehensive understanding of complex systems.
• Collaborate with researchers and engineers on technology design decisions.

Skills

MATLAB

Python

Data analysis techniques

Presentation skills

Education

Doctorate in relevant field

Master’s degree with 5 years of experience

Tools

Physics-based modeling languages

Job description

Date: Jul 1, 2026

Location: Lexington, MA, US

Company: MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Overview

The Homeland Protection Systems Group works with U.S. Government agencies to develop, assess, and rapidly transition advanced technologies aimed at safeguarding the National Airspace and addressing emerging national security priorities. We specialize in comprehensive systems analysis, advanced technology development, and rapid prototyping to strengthen homeland security.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Staff Scientist – Systems Analyst to implement first‑principles models, gain a deep understanding of complex systems, and recommend solutions to government leadership on homeland protection challenges. The role involves working with a multidisciplinary team on design recommendations for defense systems, multi‑sensor fusion, vulnerability assessments, machine learning, and technology concept designs.

Responsibilities

• Implement models based on first principles and advanced data analysis techniques.
• Develop a comprehensive understanding of complex systems and provide actionable recommendations.
• Collaborate with researchers and engineers to inform technology design decisions.
• Engage with the academic and government community through publications and conferences.
• Leverage unique datasets and state‑of‑the‑art resources to address diverse homeland protection problems.

Requirements

• Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, or a related discipline; or a Master’s degree with 5 years of relevant experience.
• Ability to quickly learn new technical areas and apply that knowledge to solve mission problems.
• Strong presentation skills to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or comparable physics‑based modeling languages.
• Desire to lead exploration into new technical areas supporting the Group’s mission.
• Capability to develop, implement, test, and evaluate novel algorithms and concepts.
• Intellectual curiosity and passion for solving challenging problems.
• Leadership experience in driving multidisciplinary technical teams to successful project execution.

Desired Skills

• Interest in National Security and homeland protection.
• Knowledge of sensors, sensing modalities, and physics of sensor operation.
• Expertise in processing large datasets and data exploitation techniques.
• Ability to balance and prioritize multiple projects concurrently.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• MIT‑funded pension
• Matching 401(k)
• Paid leave (vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
• Mentorship programs
• Work‑life balance options
• And much more.

Salary: Recent Graduate Hiring Range: $145,200 - $170,000; Experienced Hiring Range: $145,200 - $220,000.

Selected candidate will be subject to a pre‑employment background investigation and must obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.