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Cognitive Science Phd Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Master's or PhD in human factors psychology, experimental psychology, cognitive neuroscience, or related discipline with foundational knowledge of behavioral science research methods. Experience ...

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Cognitive Science Phd information

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$26.6K

$65K

$86.6K

How much do cognitive science phd jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive science phd in Washington is $65,026.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,400.00 and $70,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cognitive science PhD?

A Cognitive Science PhD is a doctoral degree focused on the interdisciplinary study of the mind and intelligence. This field combines elements from psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, computer science, philosophy, and anthropology to understand how humans and other intelligent systems perceive, think, learn, and behave. Students in a Cognitive Science PhD program typically conduct original research, develop expertise across multiple disciplines, and prepare for careers in academia, industry, or government. The degree usually takes between 4 to 6 years to complete and culminates in a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field.

What are some common interdisciplinary collaborations for cognitive science PhD students, and how do they impact research projects?

Cognitive Science PhD students frequently collaborate with researchers in fields such as psychology, neuroscience, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy. These interdisciplinary teams enhance research by providing access to diverse methodologies, data sources, and theoretical perspectives. Collaborating across disciplines can lead to innovative approaches and more comprehensive findings, though it also requires strong communication and adaptability to integrate different research traditions. Such experiences are highly valued in both academia and industry, as they build versatile problem-solving skills and foster a collaborative mindset.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cognitive science PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cognitive Science PhD, you need a strong interdisciplinary background in psychology, neuroscience, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy, typically supported by advanced research experience and a doctoral degree. Proficiency with data analysis tools (such as Python, MATLAB, or R), neuroimaging software, and statistical modeling is commonly required. Exceptional critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help you collaborate across disciplines and convey complex ideas clearly. These skills are vital for driving innovative research, publishing impactful work, and contributing to advancements in understanding human cognition.

What is the difference between Cognitive Science Phd vs Data Scientist?

AspectCognitive Science PhdData Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Cognitive Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Computer Science, or related field; some roles prefer PhD
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, industry R&DTech companies, finance, healthcare, consulting
Industry UsageResearch, academia, AI development, cognitive modelingData analysis, predictive modeling, machine learning applications

While both roles involve analytical skills and data handling, a Cognitive Science Phd focuses on understanding human cognition, often in research or AI development, whereas a Data Scientist applies statistical and machine learning techniques to solve business problems across various industries.

Is a cognitive science PhD worth it?

A cognitive science PhD can be valuable for careers in research, academia, or specialized industry roles such as AI development or human-computer interaction. However, it requires significant time and financial investment, and job prospects often depend on research experience, interdisciplinary skills, and the ability to publish or present findings.

What careers with a cognitive science PhD?

A cognitive science PhD prepares individuals for careers in research, academia, human-computer interaction, user experience design, artificial intelligence, and data analysis. Graduates often work as university professors, research scientists, UX researchers, or in roles involving cognitive modeling and machine learning, utilizing skills in experimental design, programming, and statistical analysis.

What do you do with a PhD in cognitive science?

A PhD in cognitive science prepares individuals for research, teaching, and applied roles in academia, industry, or government. Graduates often work as researchers, data analysts, user experience designers, or in artificial intelligence development, utilizing skills in experimental design, programming, and data analysis. Career paths may also include consulting, policy advising, or roles in technology companies that focus on human cognition and behavior.

What are popular job titles related to Cognitive Science Phd jobs in Washington?

For Cognitive Science Phd jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Cognitive Science Phd jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Cognitive Science Phd job openings:

Infographic showing various Cognitive Science Phd job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 68% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,026 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Freedom Technology Solutions Group is seeking an Image Scientist. The Image Scientist will serve as a technical specialist for research, evaluation, and verification of highly complex image and video processing systems for geospatial intelligence sensors, systems, and applications.
Responsibilities:
• Serve as a technical specialist for research, evaluation and verification of highly complex image and video processing systems for geospatial intelligence sensors, systems, and applications.
• Provide expert-level consultation, problem solving, and verification for all GEOINT quality assessments, studies, and standards.
• Provide detailed recommendations and risk assessments to Government and technical leadership.
• Design, develop, evaluate, and verify the implementation of complex image processing software products, algorithms, and workflows.
• Mentor and guide junior image scientists in the development of criteria for testing algorithm and system’s cognitive performance objectively from an end-user perspective.
• Perform evaluation and testing on simulated and operational data.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Active TS/SCI with the ability to obtain a Poly
• Master's degree/PhD in Imaging Science, Physics, Engineering, Mathematics or quantitative science field and 10 years of experience as a Image Scientist
• Demonstrated knowledge of digital imaging systems principles and practices
• Experience supporting the development, testing, and analysis of image collection systems
• Experience applying engineering standards, principles, theories, concepts and techniques to solve complex problems associated with image product formation from raw sensor and associated metadata
• Experience or working knowledge with advanced photogrammetric techniques and principles
• Experience performing image system simulations to produce realistic test data to support system validation and testing
• Experience or demonstrated ability to develop, assess, and implement Image Quality Equations
• Experience building image processing algorithms
• Experience programming in Matlab and/or Python, C++, or other equivalent programming languages
• Experience analyzing and assessing quality of image data across the full-range of sensor types, sources, and phenomenology’s
• Graduation from and accredited Image Science program at a university or military training program.
• Basic understanding of simulation and modeling techniques or the image creation process.
• Working knowledge of imagery systems to include basic types of PAN, IR, and RADAR.
• Working knowledge of various basic ELTs, Matlab, and mathematics/equations/functions.
• Basic knowledge of sensor types to include airborne, space-borne, and FMV.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office tools.
• Basic oral and written communication skills.
• Experience with creation of imagery evaluations, image quality studies, new product/sensor initializations, product algorithm assessments, and the development of image quality equations.
• Working knowledge and practical application of modeling components of the image creation path to include sensor, detector, atmospheric, and material properties.
• Experience with imaging systems to include PAN, IR, MSI/HSI, RADAR, and LIDAR, on both space or airborne platforms.
• Simulation and modeling experience and ability to develop algorithm description documentation for software development.
• Familiarity with current GEOINT systems, products and development, as well as exploitation software packages such as all ELTs, AGITK, and other software plug-ins or applications necessary to develop test and verification methodologies.
• Ability to develop and lead any large-scale evaluations to include, but not limited to, image quality studies, new product/sensor initializations, product algorithm assessments, back to operations reviews, and the development of image quality equations (IQEs).
• Full image processing and digital signal processing experience.
• Image chain analysis to include atmospheric modeling, signal quality and noise, optics, detector calibration, and image processing of pixel data to display radiometrically correct values.
• Application of error estimation for thermometric and material identification products.
• Understanding and application of image quality standards such as NIIRS scales and metrics.
• Significant applied knowledge of sensor imaging systems, products, and exploitation processes.
• Strong understanding of the systems engineering lifecycle to include independent testing and data verification.
• Strong written and oral communication skills to include briefing and creation of presentations.
• Self-starter with ability to learn, research, and solve problems with on their own accord.
• Work is highly independent and you may assume a lead role.
Company:
FTSG was founded with the idea of building a company in which IT professionals have the 'Freedom' to be creative and innovative. Founded in 2004, the company is headquartered in Columbia, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.