ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cryptography Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Verisign

Research Engineer

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$108K - $147K/yr

The Engineer III - Research Software Engineer plays a role in identifying and developing novel and ... Experience with network security, including cryptography, privacy, identification, and ...

Verisign

Research Engineer

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$108K - $147K/yr

The Engineer III - Research Software Engineer plays a role in identifying and developing novel and ... Experience with network security, including cryptography, privacy, identification, and ...

Gensyn

Research Intern

Research Intern Remote Machine intelligence will soon take over humanity's role in knowledge ... Experience at the intersection of cryptography and machine learning Please note: the benefits ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsCryptography Research Jobs

Cryptography Research information

See salary details

$11

$22

$37

How much do cryptography research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for cryptography research in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cryptography research?

A Cryptography Research job involves studying and developing secure communication techniques to protect data from unauthorized access. Researchers analyze cryptographic algorithms, design new encryption methods, and assess vulnerabilities in existing security systems. They often work with mathematical models, computer science principles, and real-world security applications. Their work is critical in fields like cybersecurity, blockchain, and secure communications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in cryptography research, and why are they important?

To excel in Cryptography Research, a strong background in mathematics, computer science, and information security—often supported by an advanced degree (e.g., Master's or PhD)—is essential. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and specialized cryptography libraries or tools, along with familiarity with standards like AES, RSA, and knowledge of security protocols, is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills allow researchers to confidently share findings and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for advancing cryptographic methods, addressing emerging security threats, and ensuring the practical application of research outcomes.

What types of projects and collaboration can I expect in a cryptography research position?

As a Cryptography Researcher, you'll often work on projects such as developing and analyzing new encryption algorithms, conducting security assessments of existing protocols, or contributing to open-source cryptography libraries. Collaboration is common with other researchers, software engineers, and cybersecurity professionals, both within your organization and in cross-functional or academic partnerships. Regular tasks may include publishing research papers, presenting findings, and reviewing technical proposals. This role tends to offer a dynamic work environment, with the potential for career growth into lead research roles, standards development, or specialized positions in academia and industry.

More about Cryptography Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Cryptography Research jobs? Cities with the most Cryptography Research job openings:
What states have the most Cryptography Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Cryptography Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cryptography Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cryptography Research jobs are:
Cryptography Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cryptography Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 65% In-person, 15% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Research Scientist - System Security Researcher

MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Lexington, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Secure Resilient Systems and Technology group applies foundational and applied cybersecurity research to the most critical challenges in national security. We develop secure systems that are resilient to adversarial threats-now and in the future. Our work spans the entire R&D spectrum: from system architecture and threat modeling, to cryptographic protocol design, secure implementation, field prototyping, and transition. Our mission is to ensure that national security systems can be trusted and relied on, even in adversary-contested environments.

We work closely with mission areas and divisions across Lincoln Laboratory, enabling breakthroughs in communications, sensing, autonomy, and space systems to retain their strategic edge in real-world deployments. Collaboration across disciplines is central to our impact. Our staff includes system security researchers, applied cryptographers, software engineers, formal methods experts, and embedded systems developers. We bring modern security approaches into complex, high-stakes environments where assurance, performance, and operational realities must coexist.

We are a collegial and mission-driven team. We value excellence, innovation, inclusion, and individual growth. Our culture is known for mentoring and developing PIs and technical leaders. We strive to bring out the best in our people-and our systems-so that the Laboratory, and the nation, can count on them when it matters most. 

If you would like to pursue your passion for cutting-edge research and work on things that truly matter at a place that combines problems of pressing national importance with MIT's culture of academic excellence, abundance of resources, and superior work-life balance, apply here to learn more. 

Job Description

As a Research Scientist, you will:

  • Advance the state of the art in secure communications, computing, and storage technologies.
  • Develop, prototype, and apply these innovations to next-generation mission-critical systems relevant to National Security.
  • Participate in end-to-end research activities, from concept development and systems analysis to prototyping and technology transfer.
  • Collaborate with experts across disciplines to drive innovative solutions that meet real-world challenges and stakeholder needs.
  • Have opportunities to take on technical leadership roles, shape research directions, support and eventually lead program development, and drive strategic initiatives that advance the Laboratory's mission and amplify its impact.
Required Qualifications

To thrive in this role, you should have:

  • A PhD in Computer Security, System Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
    • Alternatively, a Master's degree with at least 5 years of relevant experience.
  • Expertise in at least one of the following: 
    • Architecture, analysis, design, implementation, and verification of secure and/or cryptographic embedded software, subsystems, systems, or protocols.
    • Academic or professional research in computer security, resiliency, or cryptography, demonstrated through innovative and impactful publications or projects.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to communicate effectively in a collaborative environment.

We value varied paths to expertise and encourage candidates with practical experience or alternative educational backgrounds to apply.

Desired Knowledge

We also value experience or interest in one or more of the following:

  • Threat modeling and security requirements analysis.
  • Applied cryptography and protocols, including industry and government standards.
  • Operating system internals, embedded systems security, and network protocols.
  • Secure programming in languages such as Rust and C/C++
  • Applied formal methods and software analysis tools.
  • Technical mentoring and leadership, including guiding junior team members and fostering collaborative environments.
  • Program leadership, such as overseeing project execution, managing deliverables, or driving strategic initiatives.
  • Experience with grant writing, funding applications, and sponsor engagement to support research and program development.

We don't expect candidates to have knowledge in all of these areas, and welcome candidates eager to grow into these areas through hands-on experience and learning.

Recent Graduate Hiring Range: $145,200-$170,000

Experienced Hiring Range: $145,200-$220,000

 

Disclaimer: MIT Lincoln Laboratory provides a typical hiring range as a good faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting. The final salary offered to a selected candidate will depend on various factors, including-but not limited to-the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, skills and education/training, internal equity considerations and applicable legal requirements. This range reflects base salary only and does not include additional forms of compensation or benefits.

At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include: 

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
  • MIT-funded pension
  • Matching 401K
  • Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
  • Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
  • Mentorship programs
  • A range of work-life balance options
  • ... and much more!  

Please visit our Benefits page for more information. As an employee of MIT, you can also take advantage of other voluntary benefits, discounts and perks.

Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.

 

Requisition ID: 42277 

Apply