PhD Position in Resource-Efficient Cryptographic Mitigation for Power System Cybersecurity

This fully funded PhD position at Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) focuses on advancing cybersecurity in power systems by designing resource-efficient cryptographic methods to detect and mitigate cyberattacks. The project, part of the SIPSIK consortium, integrates expertise from academia and industry to create a unified framework for studying, detecting, and mitigating cyber threats without compromising operational infrastructure. The successful candidate will collaborate with researchers across TalTech, the University of Tartu, and industry partners to develop interpretable, data-driven solutions using real-world and simulated power system data. The research will explore post-quantum cryptography (ML-KEM, HQC, ML-DSA, SLH-DSA) and validate its integration into power systems while ensuring reliability, security, and compatibility with legacy systems.

• Develop interpretable, resource-efficient methods for detecting cyberattacks in power system infrastructure using real-world and simulated data.
• Investigate the relevance of specific measurements, commands, and communication flows to operational security across power system value chains.
• Assess the integration of post-quantum cryptographic techniques (ML-KEM, HQC, ML-DSA, SLH-DSA) into power systems while preserving reliability and availability.
• Validate cryptographic methods using real-time digital simulation, network simulation tools (e.g., NS-3), and cyber-physical testbeds.
• Collaborate with industry partners to translate research into practical migration guidance for energy sector operators.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at international conferences.
• Contribute to the SIPSIK consortium’s unified framework for studying, detecting, and mitigating cyberattacks in power systems.