Associate Research Director - Formal Methods & Cryptography

Position Overview

At Two Six Technologies, we build, deploy, and implement innovative products that solve the world's most complex challenges today. Two Six Technologies is seeking an Associate Research Director to lead technical program delivery and drive business development in the areas of formal methods, cryptography, and high-assurance software and hardware systems. A successful candidate will shape opportunities with government and industry sponsors, win new R&D programs, and guide multidisciplinary teams to deliver rigorous, innovative solutions. Ideal candidates combine mathematical depth, the ability to explain technical concepts clearly, and a passion for applying pure mathematics and logic in mission-focused settings.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical and programmatic oversight of cybersecurity R&D projects with a focus on formal methods, cryptography, programming language theory, and applied category theory.
• Engage with customers, partners, and collaborators across the government R&D community to shape new research opportunities.
• Lead capture activities and proposal development to secure new R&D programs and expand organizational capabilities.
• Guide multidisciplinary, cross-organizational teams to build novel capabilities for solving challenging research problems.
• Foster a culture of technical and professional growth by mentoring and developing staff.

Required Qualifications

• A four-year degree in Cybersecurity, Mathematics, Computer Science, Computer/Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Ten or more years of professional experience in a relevant field.
• Experience leading a team of scientists and engineers.
• Comfortable working with individuals in technical, business, and program management roles.
• Proven track record in business development and capturing Government R&D contracts/programs.
• Strong foundational knowledge in cybersecurity and expertise in areas such as formal methods/formal verification, cryptography, mathematical logic, abstract algebra, or programming language theory.
• Past performance as a principal investigator on fast-paced, innovation-driven advanced technology R&D projects for government clients.
• Existing contacts with community partners and customers.
• Active Top Secret security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• An advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Mathematics, Computer Science, Computer/Electrical Engineering, or a related technical domain.
• Knowledge of a functional programming language (Haskell, OCaml, SML).
• Experience with computer proof assistants (Coq, Isabelle/HOL, Lean).
• Experience in cybersecurity disciplines such as program analysis, vulnerability research, and computer network operations.
• Experience in data science, including statistics, artificial intelligence, or machine learning.
• Proven experience in leading a rapidly growing team.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation: Competitive and comprehensive package including a base salary range of $158,141-$237,211 USD, determined by various factors.
• Insurance: Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage.
• Retirement & Leave: Retirement benefits coupled with paid leave.
• Professional Growth: Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities.