Research Scientist (Associate / Senior / Principal)

Company: Northeastern University
Location: Boston
Posted on: April 3, 2026

Job Description:

About the Opportunity Job Summary: The Open6G group at the Institute for the Intelligent Networked Systems (INSI), Northeastern University, is leading research and development, testing and integration, and system integration for next-generation wireless systems. We envision programmable and intelligent cellular networks that can be dynamically and algorithmically instrumented and optimized through software and AI. We lead key research in Open Radio Access Network (RAN) systems, contributing to the O-RAN ALLIANCE, and we are a founding member of the AI-RAN Alliance. We work with an industry consortium of 20 companies, driving research into new approaches and paradigms for cellular systems. Our private 5G/6G testbed features open and open-source software and commercial equipment, seamlessly integrated to provide an advance research, development, and integration environment to students and researchers in the Institute. We support multiple startups and established companies in their testing and integration needs, and we are the first O-RAN Open Testing and Integration Center (OTIC) to have released a certificate in North America. Key responsibilities: We are looking for Assoc/Sr/Principal/Research Scientist role who can lead research activities across the center, developing innovative solutions to rethink software, hardware, and systems for cellular networks. We consider research scientist/associate research scientist/principal research scientist according to the level of experience and research profile. The Research Scientist will lead federal, state, and industry funded research programs on programmable cellular networks, Open RAN, spectrum sharing, channel modeling and emulation, network automation, among others. This role involves activities related to ideation, design, and implementation of innovative solutions for next-generation cellular networks, AI for/and/on wireless, wireless testbeds, conducting experimental research and field trials. The RSs will be responsible for outreach and develop contributions for the O-RAN and AI-RAN Alliances to facilitate the transition of Open6G research into demonstrations and specifications. The Research Scientist will contribute to research development activities (grant writing, proposal ideation). Successful candidates have deep knowledge of cellular systems, 3GPP, open RAN, research in automation, embedded and/or RF systems, system engineering, and AI. The RSs will work in and coordinate with a multi-disciplinary, heterogeneous team, but also lead of specific project features and tasks toward their complete implementation. We are excited to look for our future colleagues in this research journey toward open, programmable, and intelligent cellular networks. Minimum Qualifications: Experience as a research scientist or postdoc is required Publication record in topics relevant to Open6G research Experience with successful grant writing and funding applications Established research profile Publications in top-tier networking, wireless, and/or AI conferences and transactions that demonstrate research independence and creativity Experience with experimental research Knowledge of cellular systems, 3GPP, and open RAN Linux and Kubernetes are a plus Depending on the prior experience and qualifications, we may consider research scientist, associate research scientist, principal research scientist for this position. Position Title Annual Salary Range Associate Research Scientist (Research Science) R3/109 $68k - $86k Senior Research Scientist (Research Science) R5/111 $88k - $100k Principal Research Scientist (Research Science) R6/113 $115k - $148k Position Type Research Additional Information Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer. Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Compensation Grade/Pay Type: 113S Expected Hiring Range: $113,865.00 - $165,105.00 With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.

Keywords: Northeastern University, Newton , Research Scientist (Associate / Senior / Principal), Science, Research & Development , Boston, Massachusetts