Research Scientist / Principal Investigator (Consultant/1099)

Cydecor is a premier Federal Government solutions provider, delivering differentiated innovations in mission systems and business platforms. We leverage leading-edge secure systems and software development, backed by industry-leading subject matter expertise, and business intelligence to enable decision-support and remain ahead of ever-evolving national security challenges. Our success rests squarely on three bedrock principles: People, our center of gravity; Mission, what inspires us; and an unyielding commitment to Excellence, what separates us.

We are seeking a visionary and accomplished PhD Research Scientist to join our team as a key consultant. This role is pivotal to our strategic goal of cultivating capability in the areas of basic and applied research, advanced technology, and commercialization. The ideal candidate is a distinguished academic with a passion for solving complex, real-world challenges and the unique ability to translate groundbreaking scientific ideas into successful, funded research proposals. We aim to transform our most ambitious research concepts into tangible solutions for critical national security challenges.

You will provide consulting and scientific advisory services that will enable Cydecor to explore key technology and research areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), trustworthy tactical communications, and edge computing. The Research Scientist will support strategic planning and tactical project and proposal development, aligning current capabilities with available opportunities and key investments areas for national security research agencies. This position is structured as a part-time consultant or on-call employee to support the development of research proposals, with the potential to transition to a part- or full-time role to manage or support funded research projects upon award.

Job Description:

• Opportunity Assessment: Continuously monitor and analyze DoD research solicitations, primarily Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs), from agencies including DARPA, AFRL, ARL, and ONR, to identify and assess viable research opportunities.
• Research Strategy and Ideation: Lead the conceptualization of novel, high-impact research projects. You will be responsible for shaping nascent ideas into well-defined, fundable research plans that address the fundamental scientific challenges outlined by DoD program managers.
• Proposal Development: Serve as the principal author and technical lead for the creation of compelling white papers and full research proposals. This includes articulating the scientific merit, defining innovative approaches, outlining methodologies, and detailing expected outcomes in a manner that resonates with the DoD's rigorous review process.
• Scientific Leadership: Upon securing a contract or grant, serve as the Principal Investigator (PI) or lead technical consultant. In this capacity, you will guide the project's scientific direction, oversee the research team, and ensure all technical milestones and objectives are met.
• Dissemination of Results: Author and co-author research findings for publication in premier, peer-reviewed academic journals and present at leading scientific conferences to maintain a position at the forefront of the field.

Responsibilities include:

• A PhD in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Computational Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related quantitative, technical, or scientific field.
• An extensive and distinguished publication record in leading peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
• Expertise and experience with projects exploring one or more of the following, or related, research areas:
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Machine Learning/Deep Learning/Neural Networks
  • Reinforcement Learning
  • Neuro-Symbolic AI & Automated Reasoning
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Autonomous Systems/Cybernetics
  • Computer Vision & Multi-Modal Perception
  • Edge Computing & Federated Analytics
  • Radio Frequency, Electromagnetics & Sensing
  • Information Theory/Communications Theory
  • Networking/Protocols/Multi-Domain Communications
• Exceptional scientific and technical writing ability, with proven experience in authoring complex technical documents, grant applications, or research proposals.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen and have the ability to obtain a DoD security clearance.

Bonus points if you have:

• Direct experience with the DoD research and funding ecosystem, including a strong understanding of the BAA process and the missions of agencies like DARPA, AFRL, ONR, and ARO.
• A track record of success as a PI or key contributor on a funded proposal from a U.S. government research agency.
• Experience in interdisciplinary research that applies advanced computational methods to solve problems in physical or engineering domains (e.g., robotics, sensing, materials science, aerospace).
• An active DoD security clearance (Secret or higher) or the ability to obtain one

Security Clearance:

• Ability to Obtain a DoD Clearance (U.S. citizenship required).

Education:

• PhD in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Computational Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related quantitative, technical, or scientific field.

Work Schedule:

• Hybrid, On call / As needed; Potential for full-time.

Benefits:
None. As this is a 1099/consulting role, individuals will only be provided with hourly compensation.

What We Believe
We have an unwavering commitment to diversity with the aim that every one of our people has a full sense of belonging within our organization. As a business imperative, every person at Cydecor has the responsibility to create and sustain an inclusive environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Cydecor is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer (EEO/AA). All employment and hiring decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs without regard to race, religion, color, sexual orientation, nationality, gender, ethnic origin, disability, age, sex, gender identity & expression, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability and/or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site because of your disability. You can request assistance by contacting HR@cydecor.com or calling 703-884-2105.