Associate AI Researcher - AI Security & Vulnerability Analysis

About CalypsoAI:

As a pioneer in AI Security, CalypsoAI built the world's first agentic red-team solution and is developing an advanced security platform for rigorous AI red-teaming and robust AI defense, enabling organisations to adopt AI safely and ethically. With an "agent first" approach, we focus on sophisticated AI systems within our core technology and security solutions. Join CalypsoAI to shape the future of secure AI.

Role Summary:

We are seeking a motivated and technically skilled Junior or Associate AI Researcher to join our expanding AI Security research team in Dublin. This position is aimed at individuals in the early stages of their research careers who are passionate about the critical intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Security. You will actively contribute to the core mission of CalypsoAI by researching novel attack vectors against AI systems, particularly LLMs and emerging agentic systems, directly enhancing our platform's red-teaming capabilities. Concurrently, you will research and develop innovative defense mechanisms and mitigation strategies that will be integrated into our AI security platform solutions. Working collaboratively within a team of experts, your research will directly influence the products that help secure AI worldwide.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research into known and emerging vulnerabilities specific to LLMs, agentic AI systems, and other machine learning models (e.g., prompt injection, jailbreaking, data poisoning, adversarial attacks, privacy leaks, agent manipulation).
• Design, implement, and execute experiments to rigorously test the susceptibility of various AI models and systems to different attack vectors.
• Develop proof-of-concept attacks and defenses, with a particular focus on those relevant to agentic AI systems.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of novel methods and tools for detecting and mitigating vulnerabilities, feeding directly into CalypsoAI's platform.
• Analyze the root causes of identified vulnerabilities and collaborate on devising and evaluating robust defense mechanisms.
• Contribute research findings and developed techniques directly to the feature roadmap and capabilities of CalypsoAI's security platform.
• Stay current with the latest academic research and industry trends in AI security, adversarial machine learning, trustworthy AI, and agentic systems.
• Collaborate effectively with senior researchers, engineers, and product teams to integrate security research into actionable platform features.
• Document research findings, experimental results, proposed solutions, and developed tools clearly and thoroughly.
• Prepare and present findings to internal teams and potentially contribute to external publications or conference presentations.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Statistics, Mathematics, or a closely related quantitative field. (Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field with 1-2+ years of direct, demonstrable research experience in AI/ML).
• Solid understanding of machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing concepts, with specific knowledge related to transformer architectures and LLMs.
• Proficiency in Python programming.
• Hands-on experience with common ML/DL frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, JAX) and libraries (e.g., Hugging Face Transformers, scikit-learn).
• Demonstrated ability to conduct research, evidenced through academic projects, thesis work, publications, or relevant work experience.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of articulating complex technical concepts effectively.
• A strong interest and motivation in AI safety, security, and ethical AI development.
• Authorization to work in Ireland.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Direct research experience or significant project work focused on AI security, adversarial machine learning, robustness testing, or LLM/agent vulnerabilities.
• Experience with or strong interest in agent-based modelling, multi-agent systems, or the security implications of agentic AI.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity principles and concepts (e.g., threat modelling, penetration testing methodologies, red-teaming).
• Contributions to open-source projects related to AI/ML or security.
• Experience with software engineering best practices, including version control (Git) and testing.
• 1+ years of post-academic experience in a relevant research or engineering role (especially pertinent for Associate level).

Our Benefits & Perks

We offer a competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and work-life balance:

✅ 25 Days Annual Leave – We believe in the importance of rest and recharge. Enjoy generous time off to relax and pursue personal passions.

✅ Fully Covered Health & Dental Insurance – Your well-being is our priority. We provide comprehensive health and dental coverage to keep you and your family protected.

✅ Pension Plan (Up to 3% Employer Match) – We invest in your future with a competitive pension plan, matching contributions up to 3%.

✅ TaxSaver & Bike to Work Scheme – Save on commuting costs with our tax-efficient travel benefits, whether you prefer public transport or cycling.

✅ Income Protection – We offer financial security and peace of mind in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

✅ Hybrid Working – We embrace flexibility, offering a hybrid work model that allows you to balance in-office collaboration with remote work.

✅ Dublin City Centre Office – Our modern, conveniently located office in the heart of Dublin provides an inspiring space for collaboration and connection.

✅ Catered Lunch Twice a Week – For those working from the office, we provide delicious, catered lunches twice a week to fuel your productivity and connection with colleagues.

✅ Quarterly Social Events – We love bringing our teams together! From team outings to special events, we ensure there are plenty of opportunities to connect and have fun.

✅ Annual CalypsoAI Day – Each year, we dedicate a special volunteering day for employees to contribute to causes that matter.

✅ Learning & Development Platforms – We support continuous growth with access to online learning platforms, helping employees upskill and stay ahead in their careers.

✅ Work from Anywhere (Up to 3 Weeks Per Year) – Enjoy the freedom to work from anywhere in the world for up to three weeks each year.

✅ Increased Benefits with Tenure – At CalypsoAI, we recognise and reward long-term dedication. As you grow with us, you'll enjoy enhanced pension contributions and additional annual leave, ensuring your commitment is recognised and supported.

At CalypsoAI, you’ll be part of an ambitious, fast-growing team shaping the future of AI security. If you're looking for a role where you can make an impact while enjoying a supportive and rewarding work environment, we’d love to hear from you!

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