Cognitive Science Phd Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Why choose between doing meaningful work and having a fulfilling life? At MITRE, you can have both. That's because MITRE people are committed to tackling our nation's toughest challenges-and we're committed to the long-term well-being of our employees. MITRE is different from most technology companies. We are a not-for-profit corporation chartered to work for the public interest, with no commercial conflicts to influence what we do. The R&D centers we operate for the government create lasting impact in fields as diverse as cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, defense, and enterprise transformation. We're making a difference every day-working for a safer, healthier, and more secure nation and world. Our workplace reflects our values. We offer competitive benefits, exceptional professional development opportunities for career growth, and a culture of innovation that embraces adaptability, collaboration, technical excellence, and people in partnership. If this sounds like the choice you want to make, then choose MITRE - and make a difference with us. Our AI-enhanced Insights and Decisions department has a need for a Lead Artificial Intelligence and Decision Engineer with a passion for artificial intelligence (AI) and expertise in algorithms and decision making. We are specifically looking for talent in machine learning (including deep learning and reinforcement learning), and one or more of the following technical areas: large language models (LLM), generative and agentic AI, decision science, human-centered AI, human-machine teaming, cognitive science, AI testing and evaluation, multi-agent systems, knowledge-based reasoning, automated planning, semantics, and ontologies. As an Artificial Intelligence and Decision Engineer, you will have opportunities to work on a wide range of problems, working in interdisciplinary teams. Your experience will allow you to: * Apply large language models to sponsors' decision making and problem-solving challenges.
* Design, develop, evaluate, and field AI solutions that inform consequential, mission-critical decisions.
* Identify and lead new R&D opportunities to strengthen the nation's growing artificial intelligence capabilities. Roles & Responsibilities: * Provide technical leadership on cross-functional teams developing and implementing AI-enhanced decision systems, including capabilities that leverage large language model technology.
* Apply modern AI and engineering techniques to develop decision support software prototypes based on analysis of workflow and operational needs.
* Propose and execute novel, cutting-edge research in Al-enhanced decision systems.
* Evaluate Al solutions against sponsor requirements and produce actionable recommendations.
* Lead projects or small teams to solve complex decision problems for our sponsors.
* Convey complex ideas to non-technical audiences through briefings and/or white papers.
* Lead, mentor, and collaborate with technical staff Basic Qualifications: * Typically requires a minimum of 8 years of experience in artificial intelligence with a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; or 6 years and a Master's degree; or a PhD with 3 years' experience; or equivalent combination of AI-related education and work experience.
* Hands-on experience with machine learning (including deep learning and reinforcement learning), and one or more of the following technical areas: large language models (LLM), generative and agentic AI, decision science, human-centered AI, human-machine teaming, cognitive science, AI testing and evaluation, multi-agent systems, knowledge-based reasoning, automated planning, semantics, and ontologies.
* Ability to articulate challenges in high-stakes decision making with AI and identify gaps.
* A keen interest in learning about and rapidly responding to new problems across a variety of domains.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills to articulate challenging technical concepts to both lay and expert audiences.
* Ability to work independently to learn new technologies, techniques, processes, languages, platforms, and systems.
* Proven ability to lead interdisciplinary teams and engage senior mission stakeholders across technical and operational domains.
* Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain a DOD TS/SCI security clearance. Per the U.S. Government's eligibility requirements, you must be a U.S Citizen to be considered for a security clearance.
* This position requires a minimum of 50% hybrid on-site. Preferred Qualifications: * Advanced degree in computer science, engineering, or related disciplines.
* Track record of successful deployment of AI/ML decision support systems or components that have been used by customers or stakeholders outside of a lab/experimental setting.
* Experience leading teams of 5 or more to solve complex technical challenges.
* Experience with testing and evaluation of AI systems.
* Active DoD Secret clearance. This requisition requires the candidate to have a minimum of the following clearance(s):
None This requisition requires the hired candidate to have or obtain, within one year from the date of hire, the following clearance(s):
Top Secret/SCI Salary compensation range and midpoint:
$174,000 - $217,500 - $261,000 Annual Work Location Type:
Hybrid It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Commitment to Non-Discrimination All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local or international law. MITRE intends to maintain a website that is fully accessible to all individuals. If you are unable to search or apply for jobs and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of MITRE's employment process, please email for general support and for intern positions. This service is for individuals requiring reasonable accommodation requests. Please note that vendor solicitations will not receive a reply. Benefits information may be found here . Copyright © 1997-2026, The MITRE Corporation. All rights reserved. MITRE is a registered trademark of The MITRE Corporation. Material on this site may be copied and distributed with permission only.