Principal Research Scientist – Computational Design and Manufacturing

Are you a motivated Research Scientist specializing in Computational Design and Manufacturing with a technical vision and hands-on knowledge of mission-focused systems? The Leidos Innovations Center’s newly established Information and Data Science Division is seeking a Principal Research Scientist - Computational Design and Manufacturing, to help lead strategic solution developments and projects. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in developing technology-based approaches that yield novel, innovative capabilities while advancing the state of the art. We are looking for a proven researcher who can develop and lead a groundbreaking research portfolio using both internal and customer funding.

*The ideal candidate will be able to work out of our office(s) in either San Diego, CA or Arlington, VA but Hybrid/Remote is also an option*

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop innovative solutions to challenging problems of interest to the Defense Applied Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), and Intelligence Community (IC).   
• Engage R&D customers and transition partners to understand technical gaps and needs for computational design and crisis manufacturing for mission critical systems.  
• Lead teams that execute advanced research in areas of autonomy, optimization, and generative design. 
• Develop and deliver complex AI/ML model pipelines and software products. 
• Collaborate in cross-discipline teams to deliver innovations that provide measurable mission impact.  
• Track technology trends in the customer and broader R&D communities.   

Basic Qualifications

• Proven track record developing and delivering complex AI/ML model pipelines and software products. 
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Industrial Engineering or a related field and 12+ years prior relevant experience, M.S degree with 10+ years of prior relevant experience, or Ph.D. with 8+ years of experience (Ph.D. preferred)  
• Industry and/or academic experience in generative design, constrained optimization, automated planning, or AI-enabled CAD integration.  
• Past experience optimizing manufacturing processes through systems engineering and operations research. 
• At least 4 years of experience with programming languages such as Python, C/C++, Rust, or MATLAB. 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with experience engaging with senior leadership and technical teams as well as ability to present complex technical solutions in a clear, understandable manner.  
• Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance. U.S. citizenship is required. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven track record in proposing, winning, and executing contract R&D with customers such as DARPA, IARPA, or similar agencies within the last 5 years. 
• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Industrial Engineering or a related degree.  
• Strong publication track record demonstrating experience advancing the state of the art in generative design, constrained optimization, automated planning, or AI-enabled CAD integration.   
• Domain experience in design and manufacturing of naval, air, or surface platforms and autonomous systems. 
• Experience with simulation, manufacturing automation systems, and digital twin frameworks.  
• Experience with automation and industrial control languages for integrating legacy equipment. 
• Strong and proven customer relationship skills including the ability to discover the true technical challenges and requirements associated with opportunities, recommend alternative technical approaches, and shape future opportunities.  
• Proven experience forming strong teams composed of members from academia and industry for competitive research and development opportunities.  
• Active DoD Secret clearance. 
• Ability and willingness to work a hybrid schedule onsite in either San Diego California or Arlington Virginia. 

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:

December 1, 2025

Pay Range:

Pay Range $131,300.00 - $237,350.00

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.