PREP Research Associate

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). The PREP program provides valuable research and laboratory experience, as well as financial support, to researchers at various stages of their academic and professional careers. Individuals in this position will perform technical work that advances scientific research and measurement science across multiple disciplines.

Research Title: Research Associate - Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scientist for Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure

Position Description

The Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scientist for Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure will serve as a technical expert in the design, development, evaluation, and deployment of trustworthy AI technologies to enhance the cybersecurity of critical infrastructure systems. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research initiatives and support the transition of innovative AI-enabled cybersecurity solutions from the laboratory to operational environments.

Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Technical Development and Implementation:
• Design, develop, and deploy applied AI solutions focused on strengthening cybersecurity capabilities for critical infrastructure environments.
• Integrate AI technologies into cybersecurity workflows, tools, and operational processes.

Research and Technical Analysis:
• Conduct advanced research and technical analyses to develop and evaluate trustworthy AI approaches for cybersecurity applications.
• Develop methodologies and frameworks that ensure AI systems are robust, secure, explainable, and resilient to adversarial threats.

Technical Collaboration and Coordination:
• Collaborate with researchers and technical experts across NIST and external partner organizations to advance AI-enabled cybersecurity research.
• Evaluate emerging AI technologies and assess their applicability to critical infrastructure cybersecurity challenges.

Technology Transition and Stakeholder Engagement:
• Support the transition of research outcomes into scalable, operational solutions for U.S. industry partners and critical infrastructure stakeholders.
• Contribute to pilot implementations, technology demonstrations, and industry engagement activities that promote adoption of research-based solutions.

Qualifications
• • Experience conducting research and measurement science in artificial intelligence, machine learning, or related fields to address challenges in critical and emerging technology areas, including cybersecurity.
• Experience developing, evaluating, or implementing AI-related guidelines, frameworks, standards, or pilot projects.
• Demonstrated ability to transition research outcomes into practical applications that deliver measurable impact to industry or government stakeholders.
• Knowledge of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) and related AI guidance documents.
• Strong analytical, technical, and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary research environments.

Application Instructions

Please upload the following with your application:
• CV/Resume

*Please limit C.V to 3 pages only and ONLY include a valid email address for your contact info. Your resume will not be considered if the following information is included on your CV/resume.
• Self portraits
• Phone number
• Home address/Country
• Citizenship status
• Languages spoken
• Sex/Gender