Lead Research Scientist - Machine Learning (Clearance Required)

systemstechnologyresearch

Woburn, MA · Woburn · United States

Posted May 5, 2026

Full-time
On-site
Signal Exploitation & Tracking (SET)

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Job description

About the Team

STR’s Analytics and C2 Division researches and develops novel technologies to solve challenging national security problems through advanced analytics. Our team consists of passionate and motivated engineers and scientists with advanced degrees in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, and data science. We use our expertise and creativity to take innovative ideas from conception to mature implementation to improve mission success of our customers.

The Signals Exploitation and Tracking (SET) Group in the Analytics and C2 Division focuses on applying machine learning, statistics, estimation theory, and information theory algorithms for signals exploitation, target tracking, predictive analytics, and system resource management.

The Role

As a Lead Research Scientist at STR, you will help develop disruptive technologies focused on signals exploitation, estimation theory, system resource management, and systems analysis. You will lead the development of cutting-edge AI/ML algorithms for novel application domains and modalities, participate on and lead project teams, and interact with customers. You will explore fascinating datasets, develop cutting-edge algorithmic techniques, and solve high-impact, unique problems for our customers. We are looking for someone to join our team onsite as this position is based primarily in the Woburn, MA office.

Who you are:

Active Top Secret Clearance Required with SCI eligibility, for which U.S citizenship is needed by the U.S government
MS with at least 8 years of experience, and/or PhD with at least 5 years of experience (or equivalent experience) in a scientific field such as applied math, physics, electrical engineering, computer science, or data science
Experience building neural networks using standard deep learning tools (e.g., PyTorch, JAX, TensorFlow), including implementing new layers/network architectures, model training, hyperparameter tuning, and ablation studies
Experience adapting novel machine learning approaches (e.g., from academic literature) to new data sets and problems
Experience with standard data science tools such as scikit-learn, Pandas, and Matplotlib
Proficiency in one or more programming languages: Python, C/C++
Able to work, collaborate on, and lead multi-disciplinary teams
Able to communicate technical foundations of models and algorithms to technical and non-technical audiences
Experience in intelligence or military-related mission areas

Even better:

Experience applying deep learning to domains other than images/text, such as time series, discrete event sequence, or geospatial
Experience with self-supervised machine learning
Expertise working with time series, geospatial, and/or spatio-temporal data

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $174,000 - $220,000

The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate’s experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.

STR is a growing technology company with locations near Boston, MA, Arlington, VA, near Dayton, OH, Melbourne, FL, and Carlsbad, CA. We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security in: cyber; next generation sensors, radar, sonar, communications, and electronic warfare; and artificial intelligence algorithms and analytics to make sense of the complexity that is exploding around us.

STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members. Our work is challenging, and we go home at night knowing that we pushed the envelope of technology and made the world safer.

STR is not just any company. Our people, culture, and attitude along with their unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives put us on a trajectory to change the world. We can't do it alone, though - we need fellow trailblazers. If you are one, join our team and help to keep our society safe! Visit us at www.str.us for more info.

STR is an equal opportunity employer. We are fully dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidate regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any portion of the employment process, email us at appassist@str.us and provide your contact info.

Pursuant to applicable federal law and regulations, positions at STR require employees to obtain national security clearances and satisfy the requirements for compliance with export control and other applicable laws.