Principal Cyber Researcher

Overview

In this role, you will lead cutting-edge cyber research within the CRG to uncover threats and prototype novel capabilities. You’ll work across disciplines to deliver secure, technically-scoped outcomes and help shape the team’s strategy and business development. The position combines hands-on research with leadership and stakeholder-facing activities, in a hybrid Gloucester setting. Your work directly supports national security objectives and defence tech innovation.

Pay / Benefits

• 37hr working week with early finish Fridays
• 25 days holiday + public holidays
• 10.5% company pension contribution
• annual discretionary bonus
• Private Medical Insurance
• Flexible Benefits including Health Cashplan and Cycle to Work

Responsibilities

• Conduct deep-dive research in vulnerability discovery, reverse engineering, and embedded systems
• Design and build rapid prototypes to validate novel cyber capabilities and concepts
• Analyse network protocols and system behaviours to identify security weaknesses
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver research outcomes and technical solutions
• Document methodologies, findings, and recommendations for internal and external stakeholders
• Manage small research teams, track progress, and report to customers
• Contribute to CRG’s strategic planning and operational management
• Support business development efforts, including proposal writing and technical briefings

Key requirements

• Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python
• Strong working knowledge of Linux-based systems, including command-line tools and system configuration
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Solid understanding of networking concepts and protocols (e.g. TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, HTTP, ICMP)
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with a methodical and inquisitive approach to technical problems
• Experience in rapid prototyping using technologies such as Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and virtualised environments
• Proven track record of managing research projects from concept through delivery

• strong communication
• collaboration
• analytical thinking
• C/C++/Python proficiency
• Linux and command-line tooling
• Networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, HTTP, ICMP)

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