Leidos is seeking a Senior Research Scientist / Senior Data Scientist to support advanced research and development programs addressing complex technical and mission challenges. In this role, you will develop innovative analytical methods, scientific software, and computational models to support modeling, simulation, and risk-informed decision making.
The successful candidate will bring strong expertise in scientific computing, quantitative analysis, and predictive modeling, along with experience working in multidisciplinary research environments. This role involves applying physics-based modeling and high-performance computing techniques to large-scale analytical problems in support of mission-driven programs.
Primary Responsibilities:
Develop and implement advanced predictive models and analytical methods to support planning, forecasting, and risk assessment
Design, develop, and maintain scientific software using Python, C++, and Fortran
Apply deterministic and Monte Carlo transport modeling techniques to support simulation and technical analysis
Utilize tools such as HZETRN, GEANT4, or similar simulation frameworks to evaluate system behavior and technical risk
Optimize computational performance using high-performance computing (HPC) and parallel computing techniques
Conduct analyses involving radiation exposure assessment and human health risk modeling
Apply 3D CAD modeling techniques to support mass distribution analysis and system modeling
Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and program stakeholders to translate mission requirements into analytical solutions
Maintain and modernize legacy scientific software while improving scalability and reliability
Communicate technical findings through reports, briefings, and technical documentation
Basic Qualifications:
Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related discipline with 8+ years of relevant experience, or Master’s degree with 10+ years of experience
Strong experience in scientific computing, quantitative research, and software development
Demonstrated proficiency in Python, C++, and Fortran
Experience with modeling, simulation, and large-scale data analysis
Knowledge of deterministic and Monte Carlo transport methods
Familiarity with radiation risk or human health risk modeling frameworks
Experience working in Linux environments and high-performance computing systems
Experience with cluster job scheduling tools such as SLURM
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with HZETRN, GEANT4, or similar radiation transport codes
Experience with Creo or other CAD modeling tools
Experience working with legacy scientific software environments
Experience with cloud-based or distributed computing workflows
Experience with data visualization, model validation, and uncertainty analysis
Experience supporting U.S. government programs, including space or defense research programs
Experience leading technical initiatives or mentoring junior researchers
If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting: March 18, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range: Pay Range $107,900.00 - $195,050.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.
About Leidos
Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.
Pay and Benefits
Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.
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Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.
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