Job Description

Summary
Merit Network, Inc., a non-profit corporation governed by Michigan's public universities, operates America's longest-running regional research and education network. Since 1966, Merit has been providing performance-driven networking solutions to Michigan's educational communities, including universities, colleges, K-12 schools, libraries, state government, healthcare, and other non-profit organizations. Merit advances member success, research, economic development, collaboration, and professional development by leveraging its network infrastructure, expertise and the value of its member communities.

The Research Scientist is a pivotal role at Merit, focusing on advancing the network and cybersecurity research projects. This position encompasses active participation in ongoing research, seeking funding, developing new proposals, publishing technical papers, and offering expert technical advice. A strong emphasis is placed on incorporating AI and automation to enhance Merit's services and cybersecurity tools. This position reports to the Director of Research and Development and must collaborate with other research departments.

Responsibilities*
Essential Functions for this position are followed by an (E).

As the Research Scientist, this position's key responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Research (80%)
Develop and expand Merit's network and cybersecurity research program by creating innovative approaches and techniques. (E)
Contribute to Merit's network and cybersecurity research projects through activities such as: coordinating installation and monitoring testbed of passive network monitors, assisting in the evaluation of network configurations on quality of experience, analyzing traffic traces to extract meaningful datasets for cybersecurity research, conducting network tomography and anomaly detection research, and investigating broadband measurements to better understand the digital divide. (E)
Produce and disseminate progress reports, presentations, and technical papers. (E)
Present at scientific meetings and conferences to share research findings and developments. (E)
Formulate and submit new project proposals and grant applications, including detailed budgets and development strategies, in collaboration with director and other research departments. (E)
Support departmental strategy and research line of business (E)
Collaborate with university faculty, industry experts, and Merit's management to pinpoint emerging networking and cybersecurity technologies and applications. (E)
Direct the work of others as needed (E)
Other Duties (20%)
Participate in Merit's Member Conference, research symposia, and other collaborative events.
Work in tandem with other research divisions at Merit to foster interdisciplinary collaboration. (E)
Educate Merit staff and external stakeholders through classes, seminars, and lectures on advanced networking technologies and cybersecurity tools.
Support director in recruiting and mentoring cybersecurity and networking postdoctoral researchers, ensuring effective mentorship and project alignment. (E)
Other ad hoc assignments as opportunities arise.
Required Qualifications*
Master's degree in computer science or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Extensive experience in working on grant funded research projects.
Extensive Linux security, system, and account administration experience.
Experience with network device configuration, including switching and routing equipment, and networking protocols.
Experience with cybersecurity methods and concepts.
Comfortable in developing Python or C/C++ software in a UNIX environment.
Considerable experience in effectively communicating complex technical concepts and information to a wide range of individuals.
Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to communicate well with technical and nontechnical people both in and outside of Merit and demonstrated skills in project planning and implementation.
Ability to work within a team setting.
Desired Qualifications*
A good record of publications in major technical conferences and workshops.
Experience managing development projects leading to production quality software products.
Experience making presentations to technical and other audiences.
Experience in working in a fast-paced research and development environment.
Experience with AI or machine learning
PhD degree in computer science or a related field
Additional Information
Relocation assistance is not available for this position. For information about benefits: http://careers.umich.edu/benefits/. For additional information about this position and to review other current openings at Merit, please visit our website at: https://www.merit.edu/about/careers/.


Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. A hybrid work schedule will be determined by supervisor and may change if necessary. There may be some occasional work required outside of established schedule, which may include weekends and holidays. Typical work schedule is 8am - 5pm, Monday through Friday for most staff.