General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc

Research Statistician - Tracking and Estimation Theory

Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in Statistics, Biostatistics, or related quantitative field preferred.
  • Strong background in Bayesian inference, state-space modeling, and time series analysis.
  • Proficiency in programming languages like Python, MATLAB, or R.
  • Experience with implementing statistical algorithms and conducting simulations.
  • Ability to communicate complex ideas to diverse audiences.
  • Collaborative mindset to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

Responsibilities

  • Develop state-of-the-art tracking algorithms from current literature.
  • Create statistical methods for data association in tracking scenarios.
  • Formulate probabilistic models for target behavior and sensor measurement.
  • Prototype algorithms in Python, MATLAB, or R, and validate via Monte Carlo simulations.
  • Collaborate with intelligence analysts to identify tracking requirements and constraints.
  • Analyze tracking performance on real-world classified sensor data.
  • Publish research findings and present to stakeholders and at conferences.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work on mission-critical national security projects.
  • Collaborative work environment with engineers and intelligence analysts.
  • Professional development through mentorship of junior team members.
  • Possibility to publish research and shape future research directions.
  • Engagement with cutting-edge statistical and computational challenges.
Full Job Description
Job Summary

Are you a statistician who wants to see your Bayesian models protect national security?

GA-Intelligence is seeking a Statistics PhD to develop tracking algorithms that process data from heterogeneous sensors, fuse tracks across domains, and enable time-critical intelligence decisions. You'll apply statistical inference, state-space modeling, and Monte Carlo methods to multi-target tracking challenges that combine mathematical rigor with operational constraints.

Your work will span algorithm research, operational analysis, and production deployment-from deriving novel filters to validating performance on classified sensor data to partnering with engineers who implement your algorithms at scale.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Algorithm Research and Development:
  • Guide the development of state-of-the-art tracking algorithms from existing tracking literature, ensuring technical correctness.
  • Develop statistical approaches to data association in multi-target, multi-sensor environments
  • Derive probabilistic models for target behavior and sensor measurement processes
  • Prototype algorithms in Python, MATLAB, or R and validate performance through Monte Carlo simulation
  • Apply modern statistical and computational methods to emerging tracking challenges

Operational Impact:
  • Collaborate with intelligence analysts to understand tracking requirements and operational constraints
  • Analyze tracking performance on real-world sensor data from classified systems
  • Quantify and communicate uncertainty, assumptions, and limitations to support operational decision-making
  • Translate operational gaps into tractable statistical problems
  • Partner with software engineers to transition algorithms from prototype to production

Research Leadership:
  • Publish internal research on tracking advances and algorithmic innovations
  • Present findings to technical staff, program managers, and government decision-makers, as well as external conferences
  • Contribute to proposal development and help shape future research directions
  • Mentor junior team members and future hires
  • Stay current with tracking research literature and evaluate applicability to operational problems

Job Qualifications

  • Typically requires a bachelor's degree, master's degree or PhD in data science, applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, or related technical/quantitative discipline from an accredited institution and progressive data science experience as follows; nine or more years of experience with a bachelor's degree, seven or more years of experience with a master's degree, or four or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
  • Strong preference for PhD in Statistics, Biostatistics, or closely related quantitative field
  • Dissertation research in Bayesian inference, state-space modeling, sequential estimation, or time series analysis
  • Strong foundations in statistical inference, probability theory, statistical modeling, and Bayesian methods
  • Deep understanding of state-space models, Kalman filtering, and sequential Monte Carlo methods
  • Expertise in stochastic processes and time series analysis
  • Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, R, or similar scientific computing languages
  • Experience implementing statistical algorithms and conducting simulation studies
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Ability to communicate complex statistical concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences
  • Curiosity about operational applications and mission context
  • Collaborative mindset-works well with software engineers, intelligence analysts, and researchers
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Domain Experience:
  • Familiarity with tracking, navigation, or multi-target systems
  • Experience with sensor fusion or data association problems
  • Knowledge of Extended Kalman Filters, Unscented Kalman Filters, particle filters, or IMM filters
  • Understanding of coordinate transformations and reference frames

Research Background:
  • Contributed to peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, or conference presentations
  • Experience with probabilistic programming frameworks
  • Dissertation work involving real-world sensor data or applied problems
  • Prior internships or collaborations with defense, aerospace, or robotics organizations
  • Experience writing technical proposals for government research projects
  • Experience leading technical projects or mentoring junior researchers

Technical Breadth:
  • Programming experience in one or more languages such as Python, C++, Java
  • High-performance computing or numerical optimization
  • Version control (Git) and collaborative development practices
  • Exposure to real-time systems or computational constraints

About General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is a leading designer and manufacturer of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness and rapid strike capabilities. The company is headquartered in Poway, California, and has additional offices and facilities around the world.
Learn more about General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc
Size
14,000 employees
Industry
Founded
1955

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