Research Scientist

Company: Hastings Center, Inc.
Location: Washington
Posted on: June 2, 2025

Job Description:

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.Here is what we offer:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company cultureJoin Howard University and thrive with us!The purpose of this position is to serve as the Research Scientist for the Research Institute for Tactical Autonomy (RITA), University Affiliated Research Center (UARC). The Research Scientist of RITA will lead the center in advancing cutting-edge research in AI/ML, ensuring alignment with Howard University's strategic goals and compliance with U.S. Air Force requirements. This role involves strategic leadership, interdisciplinary research oversight, and stakeholder collaboration. The primary function is to provide the vision and leadership to ensure success.SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:Responsible for overseeing research teams, managing faculty collaborations, and coordinating with external partners, including the Department of Defense and the Air Force Research Lab.NATURE AND SCOPE:Internal contacts include university executives, faculty, and staff across various departments. External contacts encompass federal government representatives, industry partners, and other research institutions. The role demands a high level of interaction for strategic planning, research coordination, and compliance assurance.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
  • Lead and direct the RITA UARC research initiatives, aligning its research and operational activities with the strategic objectives of Howard University and the U.S. Air Force.
  • Foster an environment of innovation in AI/ML research, ensuring the delivery of high-impact projects and maintaining the UARC's position at the forefront of technological advancements.
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and contractual obligations, overseeing the center's administrative and financial operations in coordination with the OOR.
  • Provide guidance and strategic vision with UARC's consortium members to develop compelling research proposals for RITA's sponsors.
  • Oversee laboratory budgets, projects, and resources.
  • Develop and mentor laboratory personnel and leadership.
  • Communicate and collaborate with sponsors, lab personnel, RITA leadership, consortium members, and the Howard University Research Community.
  • Establish and maintain a RITA Research Leadership Team that exemplifies integrity while nurturing excellence, diversity, and innovation.
  • Develop and prioritize long-range research directions in collaboration with the RITA Research Leadership Team.
  • Determine research staffing requirements; provide for interviewing, hiring, and training new employees.CORE COMPETENCIES:
    • Exceptional leadership and organizational skills, with a strong background in AI/ML.
    • Proven experience in research management and collaboration with defense agencies.
    • Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
    • Familiarity with large-scale, multiyear federal sponsored awards.MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
      • A doctoral degree in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
      • Extensive experience in AI/ML research, preferably with a focus on applications in defense or related sectors.
      • Demonstrated leadership in managing research teams and projects, with a track record of successful collaboration and innovation.
      • Ability to gain a security clearance.
      • Demonstrated ability to manage large multimillion-dollar federal awards successfully.Special Note:Resume/CV and cover letter should be included with the online application.Due to U.S. Export Control laws and regulations, the candidate hired will need to be a U.S. citizen.Howard University is a comprehensive, research-oriented, historically Black private university providing an educational experience of exceptional quality to students of high academic potential with particular emphasis upon the provision of educational opportunities to promising Black students. Further, the University is dedicated to attracting and sustaining a cadre of faculty who are, through their teaching and research, committed to the development of distinguished and compassionate graduates and to the quest for solutions to human and social problems in the United States and throughout the world.Howard University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, marital status, religion, disability or protected veterans status. Veterans and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.Inquiries regarding provisions for persons with disabilities or veterans status, Equal Employment Opportunity and Title IX should be directed to the Office of Employee Relations and Equal Employment Opportunity at 202-806-1280.This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required. The university has the right to revise this position description at any time. This position description is not to be construed as a contract for employment.
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Keywords: Hastings Center, Inc., Arlington , Research Scientist, Other , Washington, Virginia