Postdoc Position in Symmetric Cryptography Security Arguments, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany

Summary

The Ruhr University Bochum’s Chair of Symmetric Cryptography seeks a postdoctoral researcher for the ERC‑funded SymTrust project, focusing on the analysis and design of symmetric cryptographic primitives and security arguments. The position is full‑time, fixed‑term until 31 August 2028, and follows the TV‑L salary scheme (Entgeltgruppe E13). Candidates must hold a PhD in symmetric cryptography with a strong publication record. Responsibilities include conducting high‑impact research, publishing at top conferences, expanding the research network, and developing independent research questions. The university offers a supportive team, comprehensive training, and free language resources. Applications are due by 26 October 2026.

Key Facts

Employer	Ruhr University Bochum
Department	Lehrstuhl Symmetrische Kryptographie
Position Type	Postdoc
Research Area	Symmetric cryptography
Degree Required	PhD in symmetric cryptography
Salary	According to TV-L, Entgeltgruppe E13
Funding	Externally funded by ERC grant (third‑party funding)
Contract Duration	Fixed‑term until 31 August 2028
Language	German and English
Deadline	2026-10-26
Employer Contact	[email protected]
Employer Address	44801, North Rhine-Westphalia

About the Project

The ERC‑funded SymTrust project aims to advance symmetric cryptography by developing new primitives, providing rigorous security arguments and proofs, and creating tool‑based analyses for modern symmetric encryption schemes. The work targets high‑impact publications and the expansion of an international research network, with an emphasis on independent research questions within the field of symmetric key cryptography.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research on internationally visible questions within the ERC SymTrust grant
• Produce publications for top‑tier conferences
• Build or expand the project’s research network
• Develop independent research questions in symmetric cryptography

Required Skills

• PhD in symmetric cryptography
• Excellent publication record at leading international conferences
• Proficiency in German or English, with willingness to learn the other language

Who Should Apply

Applicants who have completed a PhD in symmetric cryptography, possess an excellent record of publications at leading international conferences, and are proficient in German or English (or willing to learn the other language).

Benefits

• Challenging and varied tasks with high autonomy
• Qualified onboarding and integration into an engaged team
• Extensive further training and continuing education opportunities
• Free language courses for staff

About the Employer

The Ruhr‑Universität Bochum (RUB) is presented as a leading German research university with an international outlook, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration, diversity, and equal opportunity. It highlights its reform‑oriented campus structure, broad scientific spectrum, and commitment to supporting under‑represented groups in academia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the contract duration?

The contract is fixed‑term until 31 August 2028.

Is teaching required?

No teaching obligations are imposed for this position.

What language skills are required?

Proficiency in German or English is required, with willingness to acquire the other language.