Center for Global Security Research (CGSR) Undergraduate Research Associate Summer 2026

The Center for Global Security Research (CGSR) was established at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) in 1996 to bring together experts from the science technology and policy communities to address pressing national security challenges. For over 20 years CGSR has engaged diverse perspectives on topics important to national security deterrence diplomacy dual-use technology arms control nonproliferation space cyber biosecurity and energy security.

We have openings in Summer 2026 for undergraduate students to engage in practical research on global security topics. Students will work with CGSR over the duration of three to four months as a research associate (RA). RAs will engage in practical research to further their educational and career goals while also supporting the development of strategies for national security and LLNLs mission focus areas. Examples of relevant fields of research include nuclear deterrence arms control nonproliferation emerging technologies cybersecurity space biological & chemical security and energy security.

CGSRs objectives are as follows:

• To explore the dynamics of potential 21st century strategic conflicts (i.e. those with a potential nuclear aspect) and to formulate ideas about how to achieve U.S. deterrence and other objectives in such conflicts.
• To explore the sources and characteristics of strategic competition in the emerging security environment and to formulate organizing concepts to enhance the competitive position of the United States and its allies and partners over the long term.
• To identify whether and how technically based approaches can address new challenges to national and international security.
• To catalyze broader national and international thinking about the requirements of effective deterrence assurance and strategic stability in a changed and changing security environment.
• To assist in the development of new generations of experts motivated by a clear view of the changed and changing security environment.

More information on CGSR its research focus areas and its publications can be found at job will be closed to applicants on February 1 2026.

In this role you will:

• Conduct an independent research project on an agreed upon topic aligned with CGSR/LLNL research priorities under the supervision of CGSR staff. 
• Support CGSR/LLNL through contributions to ongoing research activities. Tasks may include contributing to literature reviews annotated bibliographies and workshop summary reports.
• Attend relevant research seminars speakers series and workshops.
• Present research to LLNL staff at end of the assignment.
• Prepare end-of-assignment technical report or publication.
• Perform all assignments in accordance with ES&H security and business practice requirements and policies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications :

• Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). See Additional Information section below for details.
• Must be currently enrolled in an accredited university or have completed AA/AS degree in a field of research aligned with CGSR analytic priorities. Areas of study include international relations and/or security political science economics public policy emerging technologies nonproliferation energy biosecurity foreign language studies or related fields.
• Demonstrated academic and/or professional achievement in a relevant field of research aligned with CGSR analytic priorities.
• Strong record of independent research and publication or a strong proposal of research to be done while at CGSR and in future academic and professional settings.
• Ability to work in a team environment.

Additional Information :

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

• Included in 2025 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Holiday Pay
• Sick leave accrual
• Individual 401(k) contributions
• Our values - visit  Clearance

  This position requires either no security clearance or a Department of Energy (DOE) L-level or Q-level clearance depending on the particular assignment.  

  If you are selected and a security clearance is required we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Also all L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing.  L and Q-level clearances require U.S. citizenship.  

  If no security clearance is required but your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process.  This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.  (This process does not apply to foreign nationals.)

   

  National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

  The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Section 3112 generally prohibits citizens of China Russia Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities.  The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position.  To be qualified for this position Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112.

  Pre-Employment Drug Test

  External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

  Wireless and Medical Devices

  Per the Department of Energy (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession.  This includes but not limited to cell phones tablets fitness devices wireless headphones and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.  

  If you use a medical device which pairs with a mobile device you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas.  Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

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  Remote Work :

  No

  
  

  Employment Type :

  Full-time