About the role#
The Cyberspace Operations Research Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) is seeking an undergraduate R&D Engineer Intern. This role focuses on researching and developing adversarial tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to conduct system vulnerability assessments and provide security hardening support for government sponsors. This is a paid, full-time internship opportunity.
What you'll do#
- Research state-of-the-art techniques for vulnerability detection, system exploitation, and technical mitigations.
- Develop scripts and applications to automate processes.
- Design experiments, set up test environments, and conduct system testing under simulated real-world conditions.
- Collect, analyze, and report experimental results.
- Develop and optimize prototypes for critical applications.
- Research and document emerging technologies.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve engineering challenges and participate in technical presentations.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment as an undergraduate student in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Data Science.
- Proficiency in programming and scripting languages, specifically C, Python, bash, and PowerShell.
- Basic proficiency in Linux-based environments.
- Familiarity with system vulnerability and exploitation concepts.
- Basic knowledge of engineering concepts and the scientific method.
- Experience working in team-oriented, multidisciplinary environments.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Willingness to learn and adapt to new tools and technologies.
- U.S. citizenship is required to be eligible for a government security clearance and participation in the ARL drug testing program.
Location & details#
- Location: Reston, Virginia.
- Modality: On-site.
- Term: Rolling.
- Work hours: Up to 20 hours per week during the fall and spring semesters, with the opportunity for up to 40 hours per week during the summer.
About Penn State University
Penn State University is an educational institution founded in 1855. It operates 24 campuses and serves a student body of nearly 88,000 people. The university focuses on education, research, and community impact. It is based in University Park, Pennsylvania.
How to get in at Penn State University
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