Scientist/Engineer

Overview

The purpose of this position is to support NIST's cryptographic standardization efforts through research, analysis, and technical expertise in advanced encryption technologies. The contractor will lead comprehensive security studies and participate in standardizing Message Authentication Codes (MAC) based on the Ascon family and Authenticated Encryption with Associated Data (AEAD) schemes using Keccak permutations. Key responsibilities include contributing to the cipher modes project, developing cryptographic accordion standards, and conducting formal security proofs while collaborating with government teams through regular working group meetings. The role requires preparing detailed technical reports, delivering presentations to stakeholders, and providing expert guidance to support critical decision-making in cryptographic standard development and adoption.

FWI has been recognized as a Top Workplace by the Washington Post in 2024 and 2025, offering excellent growth opportunities in a collaborative environment.

Work Schedule and Location:

On-Site: This full-time on-site position will work Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM at NIST campus in Gaithersburg, MD.

Responsibilities

● Conduct comprehensive security studies of cryptographic algorithms, including Ascon-based MAC constructions and Keccak-based AEAD schemes● Perform comparative assessments of cryptographic functions, evaluating security features, attack resistance, and application suitability● Analyze block ciphers and cipher modes of operation, maintaining current knowledge of security and performance properties● Research and evaluate cryptographic accordions and their security characteristics● Prepare detailed technical reports documenting research findings and comparative studies (minimum 8 pages per report)● Develop formal security proofs for cryptographic constructions, including key committing security and reduction proofs● Actively participate in cryptographic standardization processes for permutation-based cryptography● Contribute to development and improvement of NIST Special Publication 800-38 Series standards● Support creation of new cryptographic standards, particularly for cryptographic accordions● Attend regular working group meetings (typically biweekly) to assess cryptographic candidates and techniques● Collaborate with government staff and technical teams in evaluating cryptographic approaches● Deliver internal technical presentations on research findings and cryptographic assessments● Present technical issues relevant to standards development to NIST staff and stakeholders● Provide expert technical guidance on cryptographic algorithms and their implementations● Support decision-making processes related to cryptographic standard adoption and revision

Qualifications

Required: 

• ● Master’s degree, or equivalent, in Computer Science, Information Security, Applied Mathematics or a related field.● Must have experience in cryptography research and publications in journals and conferences in the area of Cryptography, Security and Privacy.● Shall have at least 5 years of knowledge about the NIST Lightweight Cryptography Standardization Process.

Desired: 

• N/A

FWI is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. 

Why Join Our Team

At FWI, we place the highest importance on creating an exceptional employee experience. You'll have opportunities to achieve your career aspirations through internal promotions, professional development, and other recognition and rewards programs. Join our team and take advantage of the many benefits we offer, including:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Holiday Pay
• Paid Time Off

Pay Range (Compensation will be determined based on the candidate's skills, qualifications, experience, and other relevant factors)