Principal Cyber Researcher
Principal Cyber Researcher

Principal Cyber Researcher

Gloucester Full-Time 48000 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead innovative cyber research, prototype designs, and uncover security vulnerabilities.
  • Company: Join Raytheon UK, a leader in defence and aerospace technology, committed to innovation and talent development.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working hours, generous holiday, and a contributory pension scheme.
  • Why this job: Be part of a collaborative team shaping national security while growing your skills in a meaningful way.
  • Qualifications: Proficiency in programming (C, C++, Python) and strong knowledge of Linux systems required.
  • Other info: Hybrid work model available; must hold active enhanced DV clearance.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.

Overview

Join to apply for the Principal Cyber Researcher role at Raytheon UK

Raytheon UK’s Cyber Research Group (CRG) is looking for a Principal Cyber Researcher to conduct cutting-edge research and development across multiple cyber domains. As Principal Cyber Researcher, you’ll drive technical investigations, design rapid prototypes, and uncover emerging threats and vulnerabilities. In addition to hands-on research, our Principal Cyber Researcher will be involved in day-to-day CRG operations, help shape the team’s long-term strategy, and support business development and bidding activities. To be eligible for this role you must hold active enhanced DV clearance. You will be based at our Gloucester site or our customer site on a hybrid basis (approx. 1-2 days a week).

Responsibilities

  • Conduct deep-dive research in vulnerability discovery, reverse engineering, and embedded systems
  • Design and build rapid prototypes to validate novel cyber capabilities and concepts
  • Analyse network protocols and system behaviours to identify security weaknesses
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver research outcomes and technical solutions
  • Document methodologies, findings, and recommendations for internal and external stakeholders
  • Manage small research teams, track progress, and report to customers
  • Contribute to CRG’s strategic planning and operational management
  • Support business development efforts, including proposal writing and technical briefings

Essential Skills And Experience

  • Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python
  • Strong working knowledge of Linux-based systems, including command-line tools and system configuration
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Solid understanding of networking concepts and protocols (e.g. TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, HTTP, ICMP)
  • Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with a methodical and inquisitive approach to technical problems
  • Experience in rapid prototyping using technologies such as Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and virtualised environments
  • Proven track record of managing research projects from concept through delivery

Desirable Experience

  • Hardware prototyping, PCB design and microcontroller programming
  • Experience using penetration testing or red team tools
  • Reverse engineering using Ghidra, IDA Pro, or Binary Ninja
  • Vulnerability research, including exploit development and mitigation bypass techniques
  • Embedded software development on ARM, AVR, PowerPC or MIPS platforms
  • Experience with Radio Frequency (RF) systems, Software Defined Radios (SDRs), 2G/4G/5G, including tools like GNU Radio, Osmocom, srsRAN or USRP
  • Network engineering experience in home lab or professional environments

Benefits And Work Culture

  • Competitive salary
  • 37hr working week, with an early finish Friday – start your weekend early
  • 25 days holiday (increasing by up to 2 days with service), plus public holidays, opportunity to buy / sell / roll over up to 5 days, and up to 5 days volunteering annually
  • Contributory Pension Scheme (up to 10.5% company contribution)
  • Company bonus scheme (discretionary)
  • 6 times salary ‘Life Assurance’ with pension
  • Flexible Benefits scheme with extensive salary sacrifice schemes, including Health Cashplan, Dental, and Cycle to Work amongst others
  • Enhanced sick pay
  • Enhanced family friendly policies including enhanced maternity, paternity & shared parental leave

About Raytheon UK

Raytheon UK is a leader in defence and aerospace technology. As an employer, we are dedicated to fuelling innovation, nurturing talent, and fostering a culture of excellence. Joining our team means being part of an organisation that shapes the future of national security whilst investing in your growth and personal development. We provide a collaborative environment, abundant opportunities for professional development, and a profound sense of purpose in what we do.

RTX Raytheon UK is part of the RTX organisation. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, USA, but with over 180,000 employees globally across every continent, RTX provides advanced systems and services for commercial, military and government customers worldwide. RTX supports thousands of jobs across the UK economy and offers opportunities to many suppliers.

RTX adheres to the principles of equal employment. All qualified applications will be given careful consideration without regard to ethnicity, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Privacy Policy and Terms: Click on this link to read the Policy and Terms

Seniority level

  • Mid-Senior level

Employment type

  • Full-time

Job function

  • Engineering and Information Technology

Industries

  • Defense and Space Manufacturing

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Principal Cyber Researcher employer: Raytheon UK

Raytheon UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and professional growth. With a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and generous benefits including enhanced family policies and a contributory pension scheme, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. Located in Gloucester, the role of Principal Cyber Researcher provides a unique opportunity to contribute to national security while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams in a supportive environment.
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Contact Detail:

Raytheon UK Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Cyber Researcher

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the cyber security field, especially those who have experience at Raytheon or similar companies. Attend industry conferences, webinars, and local meetups to make connections that could lead to referrals.

✨Tip Number 2

Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in cyber security. Follow relevant blogs, podcasts, and forums to gain insights into emerging threats and vulnerabilities, which will help you during interviews and discussions.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with rapid prototyping and vulnerability research. Be ready to share specific examples of projects you've worked on, particularly those involving tools like Raspberry Pi or Arduino.

✨Tip Number 4

Familiarise yourself with Raytheon's mission and values. Understanding their focus on innovation and national security will allow you to align your responses during interviews and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Cyber Researcher

Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python
Strong working knowledge of Linux-based systems
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
Solid understanding of networking concepts and protocols (e.g. TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, HTTP, ICMP)
Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving capabilities
Experience in rapid prototyping using technologies such as Raspberry Pi and Arduino
Proven track record of managing research projects from concept through delivery
Experience with penetration testing or red team tools
Reverse engineering using Ghidra, IDA Pro, or Binary Ninja
Vulnerability research, including exploit development and mitigation bypass techniques
Embedded software development on ARM, AVR, PowerPC or MIPS platforms
Experience with Radio Frequency (RF) systems and Software Defined Radios (SDRs)
Network engineering experience in home lab or professional environments

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in cyber research, programming languages like C, C++, or Python, and any hands-on projects related to vulnerability discovery or reverse engineering. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and achievements.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for cybersecurity and detail how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Principal Cyber Researcher role. Mention your experience with rapid prototyping and managing research projects, as well as your understanding of networking concepts.

Showcase Your Technical Skills: Clearly outline your technical skills in your application. Include your proficiency with Linux systems, programming languages, and any tools you've used for penetration testing or reverse engineering. This will help demonstrate your capability to handle the technical demands of the role.

Highlight Team Collaboration Experience: Since the role involves collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, include examples of past teamwork experiences in your application. Discuss how you contributed to team goals and any leadership roles you’ve taken on in research projects.

How to prepare for a job interview at Raytheon UK

✨Showcase Your Technical Skills

As a Principal Cyber Researcher, you'll need to demonstrate your proficiency in programming languages like C, C++, or Python. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've applied these skills, especially in vulnerability discovery and reverse engineering.

✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios

Expect to face technical problems during the interview that require analytical thinking. Practice explaining your methodical approach to solving complex issues, particularly those related to networking concepts and protocols.

✨Highlight Your Leadership Experience

Since the role involves managing small research teams, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led projects from concept to delivery. Discuss your experience in tracking progress and reporting to stakeholders.

✨Understand the Company’s Vision

Research Raytheon UK’s Cyber Research Group and its strategic goals. Being able to articulate how your skills and experiences align with their mission will show your genuine interest in the role and the company.

Principal Cyber Researcher
Raytheon UK

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