SME Computer and Information Research Scientist

Knowesis Inc.•Washington, DC

16h•Onsite

About The Position

The SME Critical Manufacturing/Emerging Technology professional provides expert knowledge and experience to identify and assess vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies to protect advanced and sensitive technologies potentially at risk from acquisitions by foreign entities. This position focuses on emerging and critical technology areas including biotechnology, semiconductors and microelectronics, quantum information systems/computing, and artificial intelligence, advising CISA decision makers on risks associated with foreign acquisitions related to critical infrastructure and critical and emerging technologies.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in STEM field (preference given to advanced degree and/or experience in a field closely related to a core area of FIRB cybersecurity and technology interest or emerging and critical technology areas)
At least 10 years work experience in policy development and strategic planning, manufacturing environments, the implementation of quality assurance processes, and/or technical implementation or development in at least one emerging and critical technology relevant to CISA equities, including: biotechnology, semiconductors and microelectronics, quantum information systems/computing, or artificial intelligence (AI)
Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and analysis in an area related to core FIRB area of cybersecurity and technology interest
Demonstrated analytic writing and communication ability
Demonstrate ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
Demonstrated evidence of ongoing education and training to keep up with industry advancements and maintain adaptability to new technologies and processes
Comprehensive knowledge and sufficient understanding of entire range of advanced and sensitive cybersecurity and technology topics underlying U.S. industrial, military, intelligence, critical infrastructure, and law enforcement sectors
Proficient in Microsoft Office including Word, Access, Excel, and PowerPoint
Proficient in use of intelligence research tools
Possess TS/SCI clearance prior to starting work

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in engineering, computer science, biotechnology, materials science, or related emerging technology field
Widely recognized certifications such as Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) (may substitute for up to 2 years of work experience)
Experience with CFIUS or Team Telecom case reviews involving critical manufacturing or emerging technologies
Expertise in multiple emerging technology areas (biotechnology, semiconductors/microelectronics, quantum computing, AI/ML)
Knowledge of advanced manufacturing processes and supply chain security
Experience with technology transfer regulations and export controls
Published research or patents in emerging technology fields
Experience working with federal agencies on national security technology matters

Responsibilities

Serve as Subject Matter Expert (SME) for transactions involving critical manufacturing and emerging technology for which the contractor has relevant technical expertise or experience
Identify and describe vulnerabilities, consequences, and mitigations based on submitted materials for CFIUS cases involving critical manufacturing and emerging technologies, differentiating between common and unique, novel, or complex risks
Apply knowledge and experience to identify and assess vulnerabilities and, if necessary, mitigation strategies to protect advanced and sensitive technologies potentially at risk from acquisitions by foreign entities
Advise CISA decision makers on risks associated with foreign acquisitions related to critical infrastructure, critical and emerging technologies, and other cybersecurity and technology products and services
Assess the ability of Risk Based Assessments (RBA) to mitigate case risks in critical manufacturing and emerging technology contexts
Assess submitted case materials against best practices and industry standards for manufacturing environments, quality assurance processes, and emerging technology implementation
Track and monitor transaction party compliance with established mitigation measures
Write materials that translate analytic insights into actionable recommendations for range of cases, reviews, and projects
Analyze and assess risks in all FIRB matters related to critical manufacturing and emerging technologies
Produce risk evaluations and appropriate mitigations for cases involving particularly novel or complex questions related to critical manufacturing and emerging technologies
Document descriptions of industry trends in critical manufacturing and emerging technology areas of interest to CISA FIRB
Identify potential, risk-informed strategies for mitigating and/or managing risks associated with critical manufacturing and emerging technologies
Utilize classified information systems for review of intelligence products relevant to active cases
Perform focused research and analysis tasks assigned by FIRB management
Identify and describe key topics, trends, and discussions in critical manufacturing and emerging technology and their relevance to CFIUS or Team Telecom case reviews
Develop materials to communicate, educate, and document analytic work for subject matter experts and non-expert stakeholders
Convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
Clearly document and communicate analysis in written products and oral briefings
Represent CISA and NRMC and participate in Government meetings in coordination with FIRB federal employees
Demonstrate ongoing education and training to keep up with industry advancements and maintain adaptability to new technologies and processes
Apply comprehensive knowledge of advanced and sensitive cybersecurity and technology topics underlying U.S. industrial, military, intelligence, critical infrastructure, and law enforcement sectors