Job Information
Lamar University Cyber Research Assistant in Beaumont, Texas
Position Information
Posting Number 20112927
Position Title Cyber Research Assistant
FTE 1
Position Type Staff
Department Sponsored Program Administration
Position Summary Information
Job Summary/Basic Function
About the Role:
The position of the research scientist is responsible for conducting research on industrial cybersecurity pertinent to the energy, petrochemical and port industries. This position will be funded by an external grant from DOE . The position ensures that the research objectives of the project are fulfilled. This includes developing effective cybersecurity and Cyber-Physical Systems ( CPS ) solutions for the target industries and actively engaging in education, training and outreach. The candidate will also be expected to manage computational research facilities, and generate high-quality publications in refereed journals and presentations at professional conferences. The candidate is expected to provide guidance and support to the graduate and undergraduate students in the research team. The candidate will also be expected to prepare research reports periodically. The initial appointment is 2 years. Continuation of employment is pending on fund availability and work performance.
What You’ll Do – Position Duties
- Setup and Management:
Establish the physical research facility, including setting up necessary equipment and infrastructure.
Implement and configure virtual simulation platform for testing and research purposes.
Maintain and manage the research facility, ensuring its smooth operation and functionality.
- Research and Development:
Conduct research on industrial cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities specific to the energy, petrochemical and port industries industry.
Develop effective solutions for detecting and preventing network intrusions targeting industrial control systems ( ICS ).
Design and implement cyber-physical systems ( CPS ) solutions to enhance the resilience of industrial systems against cyberattacks.
Maintain proficiency in evolving cybersecurity trends and emerging threats through continuous learning and research.
Collaborate with other researchers and industry experts to exchange knowledge and advance the field of industrial cybersecurity.
Develop research proposals under the supervision of principal investigators for external funding opportunities.
Disseminate research results in workshops, meetings, and national/international conferences.
- Communication and Documentation:
Prepare and deliver clear, concise, and informative presentations on research findings and advancements.
Write comprehensive research reports, manuscripts, and funding proposals for securing research grants.
Develop educational and training materials for various audiences on industrial cybersecurity and related topics.
Create operations and procedure manuals to guide research activities and ensure consistency. Document research methodology, findings, and conclusions for future reference and dissemination.
- Training and Outreach:
Design and develop training programs on industrial cybersecurity and CPS solutions for different audiences, including industry professionals, students, and researchers.
Deliver training sessions for different audiences.
Engage in outreach activities to raise awareness about industrial cybersecurity and promote best practices.
- Graduate and Undergraduate Research:
Guide and mentor graduate and undergraduate students on relevant research projects related to industrial cybersecurity.
Provide feedback and support to students to help them develop their research skills and expertise.
Key Competencies:
The ability to derive innovative solutions to solve complicated cybersecurity problems.
Knowledge of cybersecurity standards such as NIST 800-82, NIST 800-53, NIST 800-171, ISA / IEC 62443.
Proficiency in using/developing tools to detect, evaluate and mitigate cybersecurity risks associated with the energy, petrochemical and port industries.
Expertise in organizing, analyzing and interpreting complicated research data to develop innovative approach to tackle technological challenges.
An ability to convey intricate cybersecurity findings in a clear way in verbal and written communication.
Experience in preparing abstracts, presentations, research reports, manuscripts, funding proposals, education and training materials, operations and procedure manuals, and other written material and documentation.
Proficiency in UNIX /Linux operating systems.
Proficiency in Python, C++, SQL and MATLAB programming languages.
Proficiency in network analysis and monitoring tools such as Wireshark, Squil, Netstat.
Proficiency in vulnerability scanner and exploitation framework tools such as Metasploit, and Nmap.
Proficiency in Security Information and Event Management ( SIEM ) Tools such as Wazuh, Snort, SecurityOnion, Zeek, Splunk, and Fortinet FortiSIEM.
Proficiency in applying machine learning (ML) methods for data analytics.
Possess a technical aptitude for problem-solving and be capable of addressing complex information security challenges across existing and emerging technologies and digital environments.
Knowledge of network monitoring (wired and wireless), identifying concerns, detecting intrusions, and developing solutions in real-time to optimize security.
Knowledge of security requirements for cloud environments.
Knowledge of engineering requirements within the petrochemical industry and/or semiconductor industry.
Ability to engineer solutions to solve cyber issues encountered throughout the petrochemical industry and/or semiconductor industry.
Knowledge of engineering requirements for wired and wireless networks and strategies to secure them.
Understanding of security engineering principles and practices to design, develop and implement technical controls following NIST guidelines.
Proficiency in computer engineering requirements for incident detection, response and forensics.
Excellent communication, writing, and presentation skills.
Physical Requirements:
With or without accommodation:
Will frequently be required to perform desk-based computer tasks, network-based research tasks, use telephone, speak clearly and listening comprehension.
Applicant will also be required travel to partner locations and present research results in conferences/workshops or facilitate in education, training and outreach events.
Who We Are:
Lamar University is an accessible global university for life-long learners with a passion for broad-based community engagement. As a vital contributor to the socioeconomic wellbeing and resilience of the Gulf Coast region, our expertise is recognized locally and beyond. Lamar University is home to more than 17,000 students and is among the fastest growing Texas colleges and universities. LU is a member of The Texas State University System, which is the first higher education system of Texas and maintains the lowest average tuition and fees of any university system in Texas. With more than 100 degree options and a community that cares, Lamar students are always proud to be Cardinals.
Lamar University is committed to fostering a culture where students, faculty and staff of all backgrounds can learn, work, and serve.
Benefits:
Health, dental & vision insurance
Life insurance
State of Texas Retirement plans
Tuition covered at 100% for employees, spouses and/or eligible dependent.
Paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays.
To see more information about the available benefits, please visit: Insurance – Lamar University
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in an engineering, computer science or related discipline.
Have a demonstrated record of scholarly accomplishments such as peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, research awards, and other research recognition.
Experience in a graduate program with network security, vulnerability assessment, penetration testing, and incident response.
Educational or job experience working in a multidisciplinary team.
EEO Statement
Lamar University is An Equal Opportunity Employer
Veteran's Preference Statement
Lamar University is proud to provide employment preference to veteran applicants in accordance with Texas 805 Government Code, Section 657.003.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s or Doctoral degree in a relevant field, such as cybersecurity, computer science, engineering, or management information science ( MIS ).
2+ years of demonstrated expertise in industrial cybersecurity and related research methodologies.
2+ years of experience working in a multidisciplinary team.
1+ year of experience with Cyber-Physical Systems ( CPS ) and associated security challenges.
Professional cybersecurity certificates such as CompTIA Security+.
2+ years of experience with grant-funded research projects and publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Be capable of completing additional security screening to work with potential Controlled Unclassified Information ( CUI ).
Security Sensitive Statement
This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.
Salary $46,827 - 60,875
Work Hours
Application Information
Posting Date 06/25/2024
Close Date 09/25/2024
Open Until Filled No
Special Instructions