Associate AI Security Researcher

AI Security Researcher CERT Division, Software Engineering Institute (SEI) – a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) at Carnegie Mellon University – is seeking an AI Security Researcher to advance the state of the art in AI security at national and global scales. The role involves vulnerability discovery, assessment, reverse engineering, and designing new analysis methods for AI systems, as well as influencing the AI security and vulnerability disclosure ecosystem. Responsibilities Develop state‑of‑the‑art approaches for analyzing the robustness of AI systems. Apply analytic methods to identify vulnerabilities in AI systems and understand how attackers adapt their tradecraft. Reverse engineer malicious code and design new analysis tools to address emerging and complex AI threats. Study and influence the AI security and vulnerability disclosure ecosystems. Evaluate the effectiveness of industry‑developed tools, techniques, and processes. Uncover and shape fundamental assumptions underlying current best practice in AI security. Develop thought models, tools, and datasets to characterize threats and vulnerabilities in AI systems. Publish research findings and assist in testing, evaluation, and transition of technologies from government‑funded programs. Identify opportunities to apply AI to improve existing cybersecurity research. Qualifications BS in machine learning, cybersecurity, statistics, or related discipline with 3 years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with 1 year of experience. Deep interest in AI/ML and cybersecurity, intellectual curiosity, and a desire to impact beyond the organization. Practical experience with vulnerability research, analysis, disclosure, or mitigation. Experience applying AI/ML techniques to solve practical problems. Familiarity with AI/ML packages and tools (e.g., NumPy, PyTorch, TensorFlow, ART). Knowledge of reverse engineering tools (e.g., NSA Ghidra, IDA Pro). Proficiency in Python, C/C++, or low‑level programming. Experience developing frameworks, methodologies, or assessments to evaluate technology effectiveness and robustness. Excellent oral and written communication skills, especially when addressing non‑experts. Strong desire to learn and rapidly acquire new skills on the job. Willingness to travel up to 5% for SEI, CMU, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings. Subject to background check and maintenance of a Department of War (DoW) security clearance. Benefits 8% monthly retirement contribution without personal contribution. Tuition benefits for CMU and partner institutions for employees and dependents. Flexible work arrangements and paid parental and military leave. Annual professional development opportunities, including conferences, training, certifications, and reimbursement for professional societies. Relocation assistance and additional benefits as appropriate. Location Pittsburgh, PA Application To apply, please visit the SEI careers page or contact View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io. Employees with disabilities able to provide assistance with the application process may email View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io. Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran. #J-18808-Ljbffr