Senior Director Analyst – Physical AI Safety & Security

Gartner

. Lead research initiatives on emerging AI safety and security topics focused on physical AI, autonomous systems, robotics, and AI-hardware integration .

Posted 10/2/2026full-timeRemote • Texas • United StatesSenior💰 $172,000 - $202,500 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in AI safety and security, with a strong focus on physical AI, autonomous systems, and AI-hardware integration. Capable of leading research initiatives, analyzing competitive landscapes, and engaging with stakeholders across various sectors.

Highest-signal resume keywords

AI Safety And SecurityResearch Project ManagementEmerging AI TechnologiesComplex Systems UnderstandingExecutive Communication

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

AI-Enabled Software DevelopmentCybersecurity RequirementsTechnology Readiness AssessmentAI Risk ManagementData AnalysisTechnical AssessmentQualitative ResearchQuantitative ResearchPublications In Industry ReportsAI-Driven Solutions Development

Soft Skills

Critical ThinkingCuriositySelf-MotivationAnalytical SkillsPresentation Skills

Industry Keywords

Physical AIAutonomous SystemsRoboticsGeopolitical DimensionsExport ControlsHuman Resource ManagementAgentic AIMulti-Stakeholder InitiativesDefense SectorLogistics

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Cyber Security

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead research initiatives on emerging AI safety and security topics focused on physical AI, autonomous systems, robotics, and AI-hardware integration
Develop and execute research agendas covering AI safety and security across the physical AI ecosystem
Serve as a primary authority on physical AI safety and security technologies and market dynamics
Identify emerging trends, breakthrough technologies, and potential disruptions
Lead expert interviews, technical assessments, case studies, and qualitative and quantitative research
Analyze competitive landscapes and track startups through established companies
Assess technology readiness, commercialization pathways, and adoption barriers
Evaluate geopolitical dimensions including international competition, export controls, and regulatory frameworks
Author research papers and briefings
Present findings to executives, product leaders, investors, and technical communities
Build Gartner’s reputation as a global AI authority
Cultivate relationships with researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry practitioners
Synthesize perspectives and facilitate dialogue among physical AI safety and security stakeholders
Engage clients through virtual and in-person interactions, meetings, conferences, and industry events

Requirements

What you’ll need

12+ years of relevant field or industry experience
Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience; graduate degree preferred
Deep understanding of emerging AI-enabled software development tools and agent technologies, markets, costs, and providers
Recent experience bringing AI-driven solutions to market
Strong understanding of complex systems and cybersecurity requirements
Critical thinking, curiosity, and self-motivation to identify emerging technology signals
Strong written, verbal, analytical, and presentation skills
Executive presence and ability to engage C-level provider and end-user clients
Strong foundational understanding of AI risk management
Preferred: understanding of physical AI
Preferred: experience across sectors such as defense, logistics, real estate/facilities management, and/or manufacturing
Preferred: understanding of human resource management and future agent augmentation/replacement of human capabilities
Preferred: experience managing research projects or complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives focused on safety and security
Preferred: hands-on experience developing, deploying, or operating AI-driven solutions
Preferred: experience with agentic AI, world models, reasoning models, robotics, or autonomous weapons policy
Preferred: publications in enterprise reports, periodicals, or industry publications
Preferred: multilingual capabilities

Benefits

Comp & perks

Annual bonus plan based on company and individual performance, or a role-based, uncapped sales incentive plan
Generous PTO
401k match up to $7,200 per year
Opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount
Market-leading benefit programs
Hybrid work environment with flexibility to work virtually when productive and collaborate in person
Professional growth and career development opportunities
Equal employment opportunity and reasonable accommodation support