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Phd In Statistics Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Must have a Advanced Degree (Master s or PhD) in Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Data Science, Computer Science, Operations Research or other closely related other quantitative or mathematical ...

Must have a Advanced Degree (Master s or PhD) in Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Data Science, Computer Science, Operations Research or other closely related other quantitative or mathematical ...

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related field (PhD preferred for some roles) * 5+ years of experience in data science or a related field

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related field (PhD preferred for some roles) * 5+ years of experience in data science or a related field

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Phd In Statistics information

What is the difference between Phd In Statistics vs Data Scientist?

AspectPhd In StatisticsData Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically a PhD in Statistics or related fieldOften a bachelor's or master's degree in a quantitative field; some roles prefer a PhD
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, or specialized analytics teamsCorporate, tech companies, or consulting firms
Industry UsageResearch, academia, government, and industry R&DBusiness analytics, product development, and data-driven decision making
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While a Phd In Statistics focuses on advanced research, theoretical development, and academic roles, Data Scientists apply statistical and machine learning techniques to solve practical business problems. Both roles require strong analytical skills, but Data Scientists often work in more applied, industry-focused environments, whereas PhD holders may pursue research or academic careers.

Is a PhD in statistics worth it?

A PhD in statistics can lead to advanced roles in academia, research, data science, and analytics, often requiring strong analytical and programming skills. While it offers high-level expertise and potential for higher salaries, it also involves significant time and financial investment, and job prospects depend on industry demand and individual specialization.

What can you do with a PhD in statistics?

A PhD in statistics prepares individuals for advanced roles in data analysis, research, and modeling across industries such as healthcare, finance, technology, and government. Graduates often work as data scientists, statisticians, quantitative analysts, or research scientists, utilizing skills in statistical software, programming, and data interpretation to solve complex problems. These roles typically require strong analytical abilities and knowledge of statistical methods and tools like R, Python, or SAS.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Phd In Statistics jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Phd In Statistics job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd In Statistics job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Research Statistician - Tracking and Estimation Theory

General Atomics

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary
Are you a statistician who wants to see your Bayesian models protect national security?
GA-Intelligence is seeking a Statistics PhD to develop tracking algorithms that process data from heterogeneous sensors, fuse tracks across domains, and enable time-critical intelligence decisions. You'll apply statistical inference, state-space modeling, and Monte Carlo methods to multi-target tracking challenges that combine mathematical rigor with operational constraints.
Your work will span algorithm research, operational analysis, and production deployment-from deriving novel filters to validating performance on classified sensor data to partnering with engineers who implement your algorithms at scale.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Algorithm Research and Development:
  • Guide the development of state-of-the-art tracking algorithms from existing tracking literature, ensuring technical correctness.
  • Develop statistical approaches to data association in multi-target, multi-sensor environments
  • Derive probabilistic models for target behavior and sensor measurement processes
  • Prototype algorithms in Python, MATLAB, or R and validate performance through Monte Carlo simulation
  • Apply modern statistical and computational methods to emerging tracking challenges

Operational Impact:
  • Collaborate with intelligence analysts to understand tracking requirements and operational constraints
  • Analyze tracking performance on real-world sensor data from classified systems
  • Quantify and communicate uncertainty, assumptions, and limitations to support operational decision-making
  • Translate operational gaps into tractable statistical problems
  • Partner with software engineers to transition algorithms from prototype to production

Research Leadership:
  • Publish internal research on tracking advances and algorithmic innovations
  • Present findings to technical staff, program managers, and government decision-makers, as well as external conferences
  • Contribute to proposal development and help shape future research directions
  • Mentor junior team members and future hires
  • Stay current with tracking research literature and evaluate applicability to operational problems
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a bachelor's degree, master's degree or PhD in data science, applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, or related technical/quantitative discipline from an accredited institution and progressive data science experience as follows; nine or more years of experience with a bachelor's degree, seven or more years of experience with a master's degree, or four or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
  • Strong preference for PhD in Statistics, Biostatistics, or closely related quantitative field
  • Dissertation research in Bayesian inference, state-space modeling, sequential estimation, or time series analysis
  • Strong foundations in statistical inference, probability theory, statistical modeling, and Bayesian methods
  • Deep understanding of state-space models, Kalman filtering, and sequential Monte Carlo methods
  • Expertise in stochastic processes and time series analysis
  • Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, R, or similar scientific computing languages
  • Experience implementing statistical algorithms and conducting simulation studies
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Ability to communicate complex statistical concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences
  • Curiosity about operational applications and mission context
  • Collaborative mindset-works well with software engineers, intelligence analysts, and researchers
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.

Preferred Qualifications:
Domain Experience:
  • Familiarity with tracking, navigation, or multi-target systems
  • Experience with sensor fusion or data association problems
  • Knowledge of Extended Kalman Filters, Unscented Kalman Filters, particle filters, or IMM filters
  • Understanding of coordinate transformations and reference frames

Research Background:
  • Contributed to peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, or conference presentations
  • Experience with probabilistic programming frameworks
  • Dissertation work involving real-world sensor data or applied problems
  • Prior internships or collaborations with defense, aerospace, or robotics organizations
  • Experience writing technical proposals for government research projects
  • Experience leading technical projects or mentoring junior researchers

Technical Breadth:
  • Programming experience in one or more languages such as Python, C++, Java
  • High-performance computing or numerical optimization
  • Version control (Git) and collaborative development practices
  • Exposure to real-time systems or computational constraints

Why Join GA-Intelligence
Operational Impact: Your tracking algorithms will run in production systems supporting intelligence analysts and military personnel. Your work directly contributes to national security missions.
Technical Challenge: Multi-target tracking in adversarial environments with heterogeneous sensors is an unsolved research problem. You'll tackle cutting-edge algorithmic challenges that combine statistical rigor with operational constraints.
Collaborative Environment: Work alongside tracking mathematicians, software engineers, intelligence analysts, and mission experts. We value diverse perspectives and believe the best solutions emerge from multidisciplinary collaboration. Our team is committed to advancing the state-of-the-art in tracking while maintaining a culture of innovation, integrity, and teamwork.
Research Opportunities: Continue publishing research, present at conferences, and contribute to the tracking research community while delivering operational capabilities.
Charlottesville Location:
  • Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park (30 minutes)
  • University town culture with intellectual community (University of Virginia)
  • Short average commute (no DC Beltway traffic)

Career Growth:
  • Build and lead tracking algorithm research team over time
  • Technical leadership opportunities
  • Shape strategic direction of tracking capabilities

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About General Atomics

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General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955