Research Scientist

Research Scientist - Cyber Security (CSIRO) Join to apply for the Research Scientist - Cyber Security role at CSIRO . Acknowledgement of Country CSIRO acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land, sea and waters, of the area that we live and work on across Australia. We acknowledge their continuing connection to their culture and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. View our vision towards reconciliation. Role highlights Conduct high-impact research in Data61’s Cybersecurity & Quantum Systems (CQS) Group Shape future-ready cybersecurity solutions across critical technologies Contribute to Australia’s digital security and economic strength About CSIRO As Australia's national science agency, CSIRO is solving the greatest challenges through innovative science and technology. Many of our iconic innovations were once considered impossible until someone, just like you, joined us and took on the challenge. Visit CSIRO.au for more information. The opportunity Data61 envisions a strong, globally competitive Australian cybersecurity ecosystem that enhances national resilience and underpins confidence in the digital economy. Working within the Cybersecurity and Quantum Systems (CQS) Group, you will contribute to pioneering research that addresses major cybersecurity challenges across emerging technologies including AI, quantum systems, and next-generation communications. In this role, you will conduct innovative research aligned to CSIRO’s strategic priorities, build scientific leadership, and advance new ideas and concepts that support Australia’s digital future. You will interact directly with government and industry clients, contribute to project proposals, supervise PhD students, and collaborate nationally and internationally across the cybersecurity research community. Your high-level duties will include Carrying out innovative and impactful cybersecurity research that leads to novel and significant scientific outcomes. Producing high-quality scientific publications, conference papers, patents, and client reports. Engaging professionally with clients, delivering project outputs on time, and representing CSIRO effectively across a range of forums. Supervising PhD students within the Data61 Scholarship Program and supporting new project proposals and student opportunities. Collaborating across multidisciplinary teams within Data61, across CSIRO, and with national and international partners. Undertaking feasibility studies and applying creativity and originality to explore new research directions and emerging technologies. Contributing proactively to the functioning, culture, and objectives of the research team and Data61. Adhering to CSIRO’s Code of Conduct, safety practices, and diversity and inclusion principles. Performing other duties as directed to support organisational and project outcomes. Role particulars Location and office arrangements: Sydney (Marsfield) NSW; Melbourne (Clayton) VIC; Other locations may be considered. Salary: AU$118k – AU$127k per annum (pro rata for part‑time), plus 15.4% superannuation. Tenure & work schedule: Indefinite, Full‑time. Reference: . Essential Criteria A PhD in a relevant discipline area, such as security protocols, applied cryptography, or a closely related field, or significant work experience in the area of cyber security. High‑level written and oral communication skills demonstrated through publications and collaboration with the ability to represent the research team effectively internally and externally, including at national and international conferences, and a range of different audiences. Demonstrated a high level of experience in conducting research activities and prototype development in systems security, more specifically in the areas of critical technologies like AI, Quantum and/or critical infrastructure like 5G/6G, Energy Grid; evidence from the top‑tier research publications such as IEEE S&P, ACM CCS, NDSS, and Usenix Security. The ability to work effectively as part of a research team, plus the motivation and discipline to carry out autonomous research. A record of science innovation and creativity in the area of cyber security, plus the ability and willingness to incorporate novel ideas and approaches into scientific investigations. Eligibility Applications for this position are open to Australian/New Zealand Citizens, Australian Permanent Residents and candidates who either hold, or are able to obtain, a valid working visa. Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a national police check and may be subject to other security/medical/character requirements. Inclusion and belonging Solving Australia’s greatest challenges takes a diversity of minds and lived experiences. We know diverse teams are more effective and deliver more innovative outcomes. As an equal employment opportunity organisation, we are committed to creating diverse and inclusive teams where people feel they belong. We recognise true diversity encompasses all ages, abilities, cultures, faiths, levels of education, genders, sexualities, diversity of thought and much more. We focus on hiring people who share our values of People First, Further Together, Making it Real and Trusted. CSIRO holds Gold Status for the Australian Workplace Equality Index for LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and a Science in Australia Gender Equity Bronze Award. Child safety CSIRO is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people involved in our activities and programs. View our Child Safe Policy. How To Apply Please apply online and submit a cover letter (maximum 2 pages) and CV that demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the essential requirements of this role. If you are unsure about applying, please reach out to the contact person in the Position Description. For support during the recruitment process, please contact Laura Mason via Applications close 26 January 2026, 11:00pm AEDT #J-18808-Ljbffr