About the opportunity
The Cluster of Excellence ‘CASA: Securing the Digital Society’ at Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) is seeking several postdoctoral researchers for fixed-term, two-year, full-time positions. Funded by the DFG, CASA aims to address cybersecurity challenges arising from disruptive technologies like AI and quantum computing. Based at the prestigious Horst Görtz Institute for IT Security (HGI), the cluster follows a highly interdisciplinary approach, bringing together researchers from computer science, cryptography, electrical engineering, mathematics, and psychology. Postdocs will conduct independent research under the mentorship of a Principal Investigator (PI), aiming to achieve significant scientific breakthroughs and publications.
Salary and benefits
- Salaried position based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L), pay grade E13 (100% full-time, 39.83 hours/week)
- Excellent research environment with award-winning scientists at the Horst Görtz Institute for IT Security
- Dedicated budget for courses, conferences, equipment, and international exchange
- No teaching obligations if the position is funded by third-party funds
- Programs designed to support parents and specific support measures for women in IT security
- Opportunities for academic and professional development
- Free German and English language courses offered by the University Language Center (ZFA)
Who can apply?
- Must hold an above-average doctoral degree in computer science, electrical engineering, mathematics, psychology (preferably with a technology focus), or related disciplines
- Fluent spoken and written English is required
- Basic knowledge of one or more CASA research areas: Cryptography, system security, hardware security, decentralized security, human-centered security, AI and security
- Should have already published relevant papers at leading conferences in cryptography and computer security research (e.g., as listed on CSRankings)
- Competence in German or English and willingness to learn the other (free courses provided)
Required documents
- Letter of motivation
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Master's and Doctoral certificates
- Transcripts of Records (Bachelor's and Master's)
- Names and email addresses of at least 2 references (supervisors or other researchers)
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by November 9, 2026
How to apply
- Apply online via the official Ruhr-Universität Bochum application portal
- Ensure the reference number ANR 6091 is explicitly mentioned in your application
Additional information
- The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
- The Staff Council has the right to participate in selection interviews and can ensure participation in the entire procedure upon candidate request (contact wpr@rub.de)
- Travel, accommodation, or other application costs for job interviews cannot be reimbursed
- Ruhr-Universität Bochum is an equal opportunity employer and expressly encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- You have a strong publication record at top-tier cryptography or computer security conferences.
- Your research interests span interdisciplinary areas combining computer science, math, electrical engineering, or psychology with cybersecurity.
- You want to focus purely on research without mandatory teaching duties.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is strictly fixed-term for a duration of two years.
- You must be willing to relocate to Bochum, Germany, as the role is on-site, and interview expenses are not reimbursed.
- While English is the primary research language, you will need to show a willingness to learn basic German if you do not already speak it.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This opportunity is ideal for early-career researchers looking to establish academic independence, build a strong publication record, and collaborate with world-class cybersecurity experts. The generous budget for conferences and international exchange, combined with the prestige of the Horst Görtz Institute, provides an excellent launchpad for a long-term career in academia or advanced industrial research.
Our take
Highly recommended for ambitious postdocs in cybersecurity, cryptography, or related fields who want to conduct high-impact, interdisciplinary research in a well-funded European hub. It is less suitable for those seeking long-term job security beyond two years or those unable to relocate to Germany.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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