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Internship Malware Researcher Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Nightwing

Cloud System Administrator

Sterling, VA · On-site

$55K - $106K/yr

... research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and ... Execution of O/M of malware analysis applications * Administration of Kubernetes PODs and POD ...

Nwis

Cloud System Administrator

Sterling, VA

$55K - $106K/yr

... research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and ... Execution of O/M of malware analysis applications * Administration of Kubernetes PODs and POD ...

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Internship Malware Researcher information

What does an internship malware researcher do?

An Internship Malware Researcher assists experienced cybersecurity professionals in analyzing and understanding malicious software, or malware. Their main tasks often include collecting malware samples, performing static and dynamic analysis to uncover how malware works, documenting findings, and helping develop detection methods. Interns may use specialized tools and programming languages to dissect malware code and simulate attacks in controlled environments. This role is ideal for students or recent graduates interested in cybersecurity and digital forensics, providing hands-on experience in combating cyber threats.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on as an internship malware researcher?

As an Internship Malware Researcher, you can expect to participate in analyzing malware samples, assisting with the reverse engineering of malicious code, and documenting findings to support the broader cybersecurity team. Interns often contribute to threat intelligence reports, help develop detection signatures, and collaborate with experienced researchers on ongoing investigations. This role provides hands-on experience with real-world cyber threats and offers a valuable opportunity to learn industry-standard tools and methodologies, all while working closely with a supportive team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship malware researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Malware Researcher, you need a solid understanding of computer science fundamentals, programming (especially in languages like Python or C/C++), and basic cybersecurity concepts, often supported by relevant coursework or certifications. Familiarity with malware analysis tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, Wireshark, and virtual machine environments is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving abilities help interns excel in analyzing and interpreting complex code. These skills are crucial for effectively detecting, dissecting, and mitigating malware threats in dynamic security environments.

What is the difference between Internship Malware Researcher vs Malware Analyst?

AspectInternship Malware ResearcherMalware Analyst
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in cybersecurity, computer science, or related fieldOften holds certifications like GREM, GREM, or CISSP, with more experience
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, learning-focused, often in cybersecurity teamsFull-time role, analyzing and mitigating malware in security operations
Employer & IndustryTech companies, cybersecurity firms, government agenciesSecurity teams within organizations, cybersecurity firms
Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level, learning, career explorationProfessional, specialized malware analysis work

The main difference is that an Internship Malware Researcher is an entry-level, learning-focused role often held by students or recent graduates, while a Malware Analyst is a full-time professional responsible for analyzing and responding to malware threats. The internship provides foundational experience, whereas the malware analyst role involves more advanced, hands-on security work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Malware Researcher jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Malware Researcher jobs in Virginia are:

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For Internship Malware Researcher jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Cities in Virginia with the most Internship Malware Researcher job openings:

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Infographic showing various Internship Malware Researcher job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Intern - Threat Intelligence (NATSEC)

Palo Alto Networks

Reston, VA • On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Our Mission
At Palo Alto Networks®, we're united by a shared mission-to protect our digital way of life. We thrive at the intersection of innovation and impact, solving real-world problems with cutting-edge technology and bold thinking. Here, everyone has a voice, and every idea counts. If you're ready to do the most meaningful work of your career alongside people who are just as passionate as you are, you're in the right place.
Who We Are
In order to be the cybersecurity partner of choice, we must trailblaze the path and shape the future of our industry. This is something our employees work at each day and is defined by our values: Disruption, Collaboration, Execution, Integrity, and Inclusion. We weave AI into the fabric of everything we do and use it to augment the impact every individual can have. If you are passionate about solving real-world problems and ideating beside the best and the brightest, we invite you to join us!
This role is remote, but distance is no barrier to impact. Our hybrid teams collaborate across geographies to solve big problems, stay close to our customers, and grow together. You will be part of a culture that values trust, accountability, and shared success where your work truly matters.
Job Summary
Your Career
Our global internship program trains the next-generation of cybersecurity talent across a range of specializations, from threat intelligence to information security, engineering and marketing. Interns and recent graduates can learn about the tech inclusive hiring industry from leading thinkers, grow their professional networks, and be part of a career-defining experience.
As an intern in the Unit 42, National Security Team (NATSEC) team, you will be working closely with a globally distributed team of vulnerability researchers, reverse engineers, and threat intelligence analysts. You will support the tracking of advanced persistent threats in support of sensitive customer intelligence requirements and assist in the development/engineering of tools to assist in threat research.
Our Summer Internship Program from May-August or June-September provides you:
  • 1:1 mentorship
  • Fun and engaging events that inspire your intellectual curiosity
  • The opportunity to expand your knowledge and work on challenging projects
  • Connections to other recent grads, and employees across the company as well
    as our leaders

Your Impact
  • Assist in analysis of Nation-state sponsored Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs).
  • Leverage global datasets (netflow, malware, passive DNS, etc) to track malicious cyber actors, their infrastructure and campaigns.
  • Collaborate with a global team of threat intelligence analysts to analyze and develop coverage for emerging threats.
  • Develop strategic threat assessments based on observations of APT activity.
  • Assist in developing tools to track APTs and increase speed of data analysis.
  • Analyze real time adversary cyberspace operations and provide contextual findings regarding their associated geo-political impact/requirements

Qualifications
  • Pursuing a Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field, with a demonstrated interest in cybersecurity.
  • Undergraduate students with relevant experience and a strong academic or technical background (Cyber threat intelligence, computer network exploitation, Computer Science) or military/government experience will also be considered.
  • Government/military students seeking opportunity to embed within a team focused on National Security priorities. While familiarity in all topics is not required, competitive candidates will have experience in:
  • Leveraging netflow, passive DNS, IP registration, malware telemetry, or other data sets to form comprehensive threat assessments
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity concepts, including common attack vectors, threat actor TTPs, and the cyber threat landscape. Coursework or projects related to network security, malware analysis, or threat intelligence are a plus.
  • Working knowledge of BigQuery and/or SQL based languages.
  • Experience working with information security teams such as fusion centers, security operations centers, vulnerability threat management, security incident management, threat hunting, and data analytics
  • Familiarity with scripting languages like Python is beneficial, as is experience with data analysis tools.
  • Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
  • Leveraging Artificial Intelligence tools to improve threat research processes. Experience in development of agents to streamline workflows is a plus.
  • Ability to quickly learn new toolsets and independently increase familiarity and proficiency.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
  • Candidates with relevant experience in cyberspace operations impact to international relations, cyber-policy, or associated cyberspace warfare may also be considered.

Compensation Disclosure
The compensation offered for this position will depend on qualifications, experience, and work location. For candidates who receive an offer at the posted level, the starting base salary (for non-sales roles) or base salary + commission target (for sales/com-missioned roles) is expected to be the annual range listed below. The offered compensation may also include restricted stock units and a bonus. A description of our employee benefits may be found here.
- /yr
Our Commitment
We're trailblazers that dream big, take risks, and challenge cybersecurity's status quo. It's simple: we can't accomplish our mission without diverse teams innovating, together.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for all qualified individuals with a disability. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability or special need, please contact us at accommodations@paloaltonetworks.com.
Palo Alto Networks is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in our workplace, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or other legally protected characteristics.
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Is role eligible for Immigration Sponsorship? No. Please note that we will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position.

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