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Details of the postdoctoral positions
Application Round
September 2025
Project title
System Security
City
Bochum
Specific field of research
Computer Science and Mathematics
Max Planck Institute
Max Planck Institute for Security and Privacy
Broad field of research
Chemistry, Physics and Technology Section
Short description of the group/project/topic of research

Our research spans the full spectrum of systems security, ranging from the analysis, modeling, and design of secure systems to their implementation and validation. In recent years, we have focused on the systematic identification, analysis, and mitigation of security vulnerabilities in modern computing environments. We also explore intersection between machine learning and computer security (e.g., prompt injection or adversarial examples). 

Candidates should hold a PhD in computer science or a related field, with a focus on computer security, systems, or machine learning. We are looking for individuals with an outstanding research track record, demonstrated through publications in top-tier venues such as IEEE S&P, USENIX Security, CCS, NDSS, or leading machine learning conferences. The ideal candidate is capable of conducting independent research, while also contributing to collaborative projects in a larger group. The project will be embedded into the research ongoing within our ERC project Resilient and Sustainable Software Security.

MPI‑SP offers an excellent research environment and close ties to leading international research groups. The position includes a competitive salary, generous travel support, and opportunities to mentor students, co-lead projects, and shape your own research agenda within the broader scope of our work.

Requirements
Requirements

Applicants have to upload their 

  • CV (including a publication list)
  • a summary of previous research
  • and a statement of interest
Additional requirements for the application

Please upload a short research proposal and contact details of 2-3 references.

Principal Investigator
Thorsten Holz - Max Planck Institute for Security and Privacy
Email: thorsten.holz@mpi-sp.org
Contact person
Thorsten Holz
thorsten.holz@mpi-sp.org
+49 234 90498-106