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Cybersecurity● OpenResearch staffOpen until filledPreview

Research Assistant - Software Security & Program Analysis

Join a leading cybersecurity research team to develop innovative methods for software vulnerability detection and analysis.

Best for:Best for computer science graduates with strong programming skills and a deep interest in software security research.

Fraunhofer SIT · Darmstadt, Germany · R1 · First-stage researcher
More professors at Fraunhofer SIT
Software SecurityProgram AnalysisVulnerability DetectionStatic AnalysisDynamic AnalysisFuzzing
This is a research staff position — not a PhD studentship.
Deadline
Until filled
rolling
Funding
Salaried
Based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD)
Start date
flexible
Full-time
Location
Darmstadt
Germany

Overview

The Fraunhofer Institute for Secure Information Technology (SIT) is seeking a motivated Research Assistant to join their team in Darmstadt. This role focuses on applied research in software security, specifically involving the development and evaluation of methods for detecting and mitigating vulnerabilities. The successful candidate will engage in static and dynamic program analysis, including the use of AI-driven techniques and fuzzing. The position offers a collaborative environment with opportunities to contribute to both academic and industry-funded projects, with support available for those pursuing a doctoral degree.

Software SecurityProgram AnalysisCybersecurityVulnerability ResearchPenetration TestingJavaC++Fraunhofer

What you'll do

  • Conduct applied research projects in software security in collaboration with academic and industry partners.
  • Develop and scientifically evaluate new methods for identifying, analyzing, and verifying software vulnerabilities.
  • Perform static and dynamic program analysis, including the application of fuzzing and AI-based detection techniques.
  • Execute security assessments, including code reviews, penetration testing, and threat modeling.
  • Collaborate on publicly funded and industry-sponsored research initiatives.
  • Draft project reports and contribute to scientific publications.
  • Present research findings at national and international academic conferences.

Requirements

Degree required: Master's degree in Computer Science, IT Security, or a related discipline.

Language: Very good written and spoken German and English skills.

Instruction: German and English

Required skills
  • Strong proficiency in programming, specifically Java and C/C++.
  • Demonstrated interest in software security and program analysis.
  • Understanding of code-level security principles.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment.
Nice to have
Practical experience with static or dynamic program analysis and fuzzing.Experience in penetration testing, exploit analysis, or vulnerability research.Knowledge of risk and threat modeling methodologies.Experience conducting professional code reviews.
Eligibility
  • Must hold a completed Master's degree in a relevant field.

Funding & terms

Type
Salaried
Amount
Based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD)
Duration
unknown
Programme
Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft
Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft

How to apply

Interested candidates should submit their application through the official Fraunhofer online portal. Once submitted, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt, followed by further communication regarding the next steps in the selection process.

Documents required
  • CV
  • Cover letter
  • Academic transcripts
↗Apply on site

Contact

Lab
Fraunhofer Institute for Secure Information Technology
Fraunhofer SIT
Germany
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