Research Scientist

About This Role

Researching and solving complex engineering problems is the core of this role, working with a highly technical, multidisciplinary team in the Autonomy and Artificial Intelligence branch. This position suits a talented research scientist who can provide cutting-edge solutions to aerospace and defense problems.

Responsibilities

• Develop solutions to aerospace and defense problems by applying a variety of engineering, AI/ML, and software technical skills
• Solve open-ended research problems across several different aerospace domains
• Utilize technical skills to work through tasks involving dynamical modeling and simulation, machine learning (e.g., supervised learning, reinforcement learning), algorithm development, and data visualization
• Implement skills and solutions in software via programming languages such as Python
• Leverage internal resources (e.g., software toolkits), collaborate with peers and experienced professionals, and learn independently
• Comfortably and effectively communicate technical results of analysis to peers

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 0-2 years of prior relevant experience or a master's degree with less than 2 years of prior relevant experience
• US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance
• Advanced proficiency in programming, specifically including Python and MATLAB
• Fundamental understanding of mathematical concepts, including linear algebra, matrix math, statistics, trigonometry, and coordinate frames
• Fundamental understanding of core aerospace concepts, such as vehicle and attitude dynamics, control systems, and flight mechanics
• Computer Science / Math: Understanding of machine learning basics, supervised learning, reinforcement learning, and statistics
• Ability to perform independent research to learn new skills
• Ability to work both in collaborative team environments and independently on open-ended research problems
• Effective technical communication skills

Nice to have:

• US Citizen with an active TS/SCI security clearance
• Research experience or prior internship positions
• Experience with C++
• Experience with Linux
• Experience with version control systems (e.g. Git)

Benefits

• Health and Wellness programs
• Income Protection
• Paid Leave
• Retirement

Important Details

• Application deadline: October 23, 2026

About the Company

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025.