Job Description

Location: Boulder, CO
Salary Range:

• Research Associate: $85,000 to $150,000
• Principal Research Associate: $145,000 to $190,000
• Senior Principal Research Associate: $185,000 to $210,000

Be Bold. Be Groundbreaking. Be Boulder.

The Opportunity:

Do you want to lead research efforts that shape the future of national security? Are you ready to dive into cutting-edge technologies with top scientists and collaborate on critical solutions for the defense sector?

The Center for National Security Initiatives (NSI) at CU Boulder seeks dynamic Research Associates and Senior Research Associates across multiple focus areas to advance applied research for national defense.

At NSI, we foster a culture of discovery, inclusivity, and high-impact research. Our work directly contributes to addressing challenges in autonomy, cybersecurity, energy collection, geospatial analytics, and more. Your expertise will accelerate the development of groundbreaking solutions for the DoD, IC, and Aerospace & Defense industries.

Your Mission:

• Innovate & Lead: Develop groundbreaking research in your focus area to support DoD and IC missions
• Engage & Collaborate: Partner with CU Boulder faculty, government agencies, and industry leaders
• Shape National Security Research: Identify and secure funding for innovative research projects
• Deliver Results: Present actionable insights, project deliverables, and technical solutions

Focus Areas of Research:

???? Autonomous Systems: AI-driven control, robotics, and swarming capabilities
???? Cybersecurity: Defense of space assets, critical infrastructure, and global communications systems
???? Energy Collection & Storage: Sustainable solutions for U.S. defense systems
???? Environment & Climate: Navigational insights and Arctic environment adaptation for national security
????? Space Domain Awareness: Astrodynamics, anomaly detection, and operational security
???? Quantum Technologies: Quantum sensing, communications, and computing advancements
???? Radiofrequency (RF) Engineering: Spectrum operations and advanced RF solutions
???? Geospatial Data Analytics: Fusing large data sets to produce actionable intelligence
???? Hypersonics: Propulsion, aerodynamics, and structural innovations
???? Human Performance/Factors: Enhancing human-machine teaming and performance
???? ISR & Positioning: Space-based surveillance and high-precision tracking systems

Why Join Us?

???? Impact-Driven Research: Work on projects with real-world national security applications
???? Collaboration at its Core: Build meaningful relationships across academia, government, and industry
???? Growth & Advancement: Develop your career in a supportive, fast-paced research environment
???? Diverse & Inclusive Culture: Join a welcoming community with a shared commitment to innovation

What You Bring:

Minimum Requirements:

• PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or relevant field
• Research Associate: 3+ years of research experience
• Senior Research Associate: 6+ years of research experience
• Proven expertise in your research focus area
• Strong communication skills and ability to build professional networks
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience with DoD or Aerospace & Defense projects
• Program management and business development experience
• Active or previous security clearance

Benefits:

???? Competitive compensation
???? Comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement benefits
????? Paid time off and tuition benefits
???? Inspiring campus environment with relocation support