Post-Doctoral Researcher - IT , OT Cybersecurity, AI, Machine Learning

Established nearly two centuries ago, FM is a leading mutual insurance company whose capital, scientific research capability and engineering expertise are solely dedicated to property risk management and the resilience of its policyholder-owners. These owners, who share the belief that the majority of property loss is preventable, represent many of the world’s largest organizations, including one of every four Fortune 500 companies. They work with FM to better understand the hazards that can impact their business continuity to make cost-effective risk management decisions, combining property loss prevention with insurance protection.

This position is for a limited term of up to two years, renewable annually.  The role is typically focused on performing publishable work as part of a strategic research program under the guidance of a program manager or other senior research staff member(s).

Highly skilled and motivated Post-Doctoral Researcher to drive advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence for handling large quantities of data and identifying patterns, particularly in the context of cybersecurity. The successful candidate will possess expertise in both IT and OT cybersecurity domains and will focus on identifying scenarios where cyber-attacks could lead to physical damage across multiple equipment and sites. This role demands strong project management skills, technical guidance capabilities, and collaboration with research entities to ensure timely and quality deliverables.

Responsibilities

1. Research and Development:

• Conduct cutting-edge research in machine learning models, AI techniques and data-driven tools to enhance the analysis and pattern recognition of large datasets in cybersecurity contexts.
• Develop models to predict and mitigate multi-site cyber attack scenarios that could lead to physical damage.

1. Cybersecurity Analysis:

• Apply cybersecurity expertise in both IT and OT environments to identify vulnerabilities and potential attack vectors.
• Analyze potential impacts of cybersecurity threats and devise strategies to enhance defense mechanisms.

1. Cyber Framework Development:

• Design and develop cybersecurity frameworks targeting industrial control systems, ensuring comprehensive coverage from design to implementation.
• Define business risk-prioritized recommendations to mitigate vulnerabilities, focusing on preventing cyber-physical impacts.

1. Definition of Cyber Attack Scenarios:

• Identify and define potential cyber attack scenarios and cyber kill chain variants that, when combined, could result in physical damage to industrial environments.
• Conduct simulations and assessments to understand the impact of these scenarios and devise strategies for prevention and response.

1. Project Management:

• Lead project management efforts, ensuring that research projects are completed on time and meet quality standards.
• Coordinate and collaborate with various research entities and stakeholders to align project objectives and outcomes.

1. Technical Guidance and Team Leadership:

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to team members, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.
• Lead the team in designing and implementing robust data handling and analysis frameworks.

1. Collaboration and Communication:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with research partners and stakeholders.

Prepare and deliver presentations and reports on research findings, project progress, and recommendations

Term:     Up to 2 years

Required Qualifications

• Doctorate Degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Proven experience in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data analysis.
• Demonstrated expertise in IT and OT cybersecurity.
• Strong programming skills and experience with coding in languages such as Python, R, or similar.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in project management and leadership roles in research settings.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity frameworks and standards.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex concepts to diverse audiences.
• A track record of published research in reputable journals or conferences in the fields of machine learning and cybersecurity.

 Personal Attributes

• Highly organized and self-directed.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced research environment and adapt to changing needs.
• Strong commitment to scientific integrity.
• Excellent interpersonal skills in an international environment.

Supervision

• The Post-Doctoral Research Associate will be supervised by the Research Area Director – Future of Industry.