Overview
The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) conducts research, development, test, and evaluation on behalf of the homeland security enterprise (HSE). S&T’s Data Analytics Technology Center (DA-TC) applies leading-edge data analytics research and development techniques to enable user-focused, data-driven solutions for homeland security missions. DA-TC operates a state-of-the-art data analytics work center infrastructure to support mission relevant evaluations of strategic data research and development, emerging technology assessments and rapid experimentation. DA-TC conducts research in future computing architectures, application and evaluation of analytic solutions, and assessments of emerging architecture and analytic solutions. For more information about DHS visit: https://www.dhs.gov/mission.

Project
The DA-TC is seeking candidates who have the academic background to engage in the following projects. Projects will be structured to support the overarching learning objectives of the appointment, ensuring participants are actively involved in the learning process. The time commitment for projects will vary based on the specific assignment, ranging from 10 to 40 hours per week.

• Blockchain analytics – This research explores real-time analytics and designing repeatable, scalable techniques to identify activities of interest on the blockchain. A hands-on familiarity with machine learning and blockchain or related research is required as are Python or other coding skills.
• Quantum computing – This research is exploratory, applying hands-on skills to demonstrate the use of quantum machines and hybrid classical/quantum in the cloud for use cases relevant to DHS. Applicants must have a background or be pursuing a quantum computing degree and have familiarity with Python or other coding skills.

This research addresses both strategic and tactical concerns of the DHS. We offer a challenging and fast-paced environment that facilitates learning and exploration of new ideas that improve operational efficiency while preserving the privacy and civil rights of individuals. Under the direction of cognizant Federal personnel, participants will have opportunities to learn how to lead tasks, explore new research areas for DHS, and participate in networking opportunities. DHS staff comes from technical fields and other fields such as Policy, Economics, and Anthropology to enable multi-disciplinary approaches to problem solving. 

Candidates will have opportunities to explore other areas of mutual research interests relevant to homeland security as data analytics research and development comprises many technologies related to computation, storage, privacy, security, and analytics that apply broadly across mission areas.

• Health insurance allowance.
• Reimbursement for travel expenses.
• Travel/training allowance for professional development and travel to professional meetings, such as conferences.

To qualify for this opportunity you must,

• Be 18 years of age or older at time of application.
• Be currently pursuing or have received a Bachelor’s, Master's, or Doctoral degree from an accredited college or university in a desired discipline (Please see full list of disciplines below under Eligibility Requirements).
• Be a U.S. citizen.
• Have strong communication skills.
  • Be able to coordinate with mentor and fellow DA-TC team members.
  • Be able to explain technical concepts to a general audience.
• Have strong technical skills which include:
  • Blockchain analytics – Hands-on background with machine learning and blockchain or related areas is required. Python and other coding skills necessary.
  • Quantum computing – Have a relevant background in quantum computing or be pursuing a quantum computing degree. Python and other coding skills necessary.

A complete application consists of:

• A Completed Zintellect profile.
• Completed Essay Questions - the application includes questions specific to the opportunity.
• A Current Resume/CV.
• Academic Records: The applicant must submit records for the most recent degree or degree in progress. Unofficial transcripts or copies of academic records provided by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institutional systems may be submitted.
• Name and Contact Information for One (1) Recommender. Applicants are required to provide a name, phone number, and email address for one recommender.

If you have questions, please send an email to DHSED@orau.org with "DHS-RPP-DATC-2025-03" in the subject line.

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• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, or Doctoral Degree.
• Discipline(s):
  • Computer, Information, and Data Sciences (17 )
  • Mathematics and Statistics (11 )
• Age: Must be 18 years of age