Doctoral researcher (PhD) in Applied Cryptography

The University of Luxembourg invites applications from M.Sc. holders in the general area of applied cryptography. Cryptolux is a team of cryptographers and security researchers interested in applied cryptography, cryptanalysis, privacy, network security, cryptographic blockchains and is led by Prof. Alex Biryukov. We are affiliated to the Department of Computer Science (DCS) and to the interdisciplinary Security and Trust center (SnT).

Doctoral researcher (PhD) in Applied Cryptography

• Initial contract of 36 months, with a further possible 1-year extension if required
• Number of positions: 1
• Start day: October 2020 or later upon agreement

Area (potential topics of the thesis)

 Cryptanalysis and design of cryptographic primitives

 Lightweight block ciphers, hash functions, authenticated encryption schemes

 Financial Cryptography (security of distributed ledgers, smart contracts)

 Privacy Enhancing Technology (Tor-like networks, privacy for cryptocurrencies, blockchains)

 Design of proofs of work, resource-hard functions, commitment schemes

 Side-channel attacks and countermeasures

 White-box cryptography

Your Role

 Prepare a doctoral thesis in Cryptography and IT Security

 Publish research papers and give talks at the top international venues

 Provide guidance to MSc students and TA for classes, depending on the needs of the team

 Help with organizing science outreach activities (science for kids, etc.)

Your Profile

 M.Sc. degree in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering with outstanding grades (GPA > 85%)

 Strong mathematical and/or algorithmic CS background (Olympiads, CTFs a plus)

 Some background in cryptography or information security – a plus

 Good skills in programming, scripting languages . Math tools a plus.

 Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English

We offer

The University offers a Ph.D. study program with an Initial contract of 36 months, with a further possible 1-year extension if required. The University offers highly competitive salaries and is an equal opportunity employer. You will work in an exciting international environment and will have a chance to participate in the development of a newly created research center.

Further Information

Applications, written in English, should be submitted online or to (alex.biryukov@uni.lu) and should include:

 Curriculum Vitae (with photo, education, work experience)

 Brief research statement and topics of particular interest to the candidate (max 1 page)

 Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken, with overall GPAs

 Contact information for 2-3 references

Application deadline: 31 August 2020. Early submission is encouraged; applications will be processed upon arrival.

Ref: RCREQ0004322