Lead Research Scientist - Telecommunications Cybersecurity

Overview

At PNNL, our core capabilities are organized into major departments called Directorates, each focused on a specific area of scientific research or function, with dedicated leadership and budgets.

Our Science & Technology directorates encompass National Security, Earth and Biological Sciences, Physical and Computational Sciences, and Energy and Environment. We also host an Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a Department of Energy Office of Science user facility located on the PNNL campus.

The Energy and Environment Directorate provides innovative science and technology solutions to tackle our nation's major energy and environmental challenges. Our dedicated staff of over 1,700 supports the Department of Energy (DOE) in key mission areas such as modernizing the nation’s power grid, advancing renewable energy technologies, and addressing complex issues in nuclear science and environmental management.

The Electricity Infrastructure and Buildings Division, a part of the Energy and Environment Directorate, is committed to accelerating the transition to an efficient, resilient, and secure energy system through both basic and applied research. We utilize a strong technical foundation in power systems and advanced analytics to drive innovation and influence energy policy.

The Energy Systems Engineering Group (ESEG) focuses on developing robust software tools and computing methods to optimize the design and operations of energy systems while ensuring the security of critical infrastructure. This dynamic group consists of over 30 research professionals organized into four teams and applies expertise in systems architecture, grid device coordination, next-generation sensing, advanced computing, and grid-edge application development.

Responsibilities

PNNL is seeking a highly experienced cybersecurity researcher to lead cutting-edge research in secure communications and grid cybersecurity. This role will concentrate on developing strategies and tools that bolster the resilience and security of critical infrastructure communications while contributing to wider cybersecurity initiatives across various programs.

The successful candidate will be instrumental in advancing PNNL's mission to secure critical infrastructure and promote robust communications for national energy systems. Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and proposing projects focused on preventing unauthorized access, monitoring network traffic for anomalies, and implementing complementary communications security methods.
• Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to drive cybersecurity research and the application of standards in advanced grid technology areas, including secure communications.
• Generating and leading the development of documentation and publications that support the research.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS/BA and 7+ years of relevant experience -OR-
• MS/MA and 5+ years of relevant experience -OR-
• PhD with 3+ years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with critical infrastructure protection, grid modernization, and telecommunications security.
• Experience interacting with industry stakeholders and regulatory bodies.
• Demonstrated expertise in planning and implementing hardware-in-the-loop infrastructure.
• Strong technical background in telecommunications cybersecurity, grid cybersecurity, and timing systems.
• Knowledge in system architecture and secure telecommunications deployment in an electric utility environment.
• Proven ability to lead research initiatives, develop use cases, and deliver effective technical solutions in complex environments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience producing technical documentation and white papers.

Additional Information

Not Applicable.

Testing Designated Position

This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).

About PNNL

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a premier research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Join us at PNNL to collaborate with renowned researchers on innovative science, benefiting the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors!

At PNNL, enjoy a vibrant research environment and excellent benefits, including health insurance and flexible work options. PNNL is situated in eastern Washington State, known for stunning outdoor recreation and affordable living. The lab's campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland and is accessible via the PSC airport, which connects to eight major hubs.

Commitment to Excellence and Equal Employment Opportunity

We prioritize a work environment where all individuals are treated with fairness and respect while addressing significant challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resilience. PNNL is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

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