About the opportunity
The Chair for Information Security at Ruhr University Bochum, led by Prof. Dr. Ghassan Karame, is seeking a PhD researcher to join its international team. The role focuses on researching, analyzing, and improving the security and privacy of modern decentralized platforms while enhancing their performance. The position is affiliated with the Horst Görtz Institute for IT Security (HGI) and the CASA Cluster of Excellence, providing an elite research environment. Beyond research, the successful candidate will participate in teaching and third-party funded projects, collaborating with institutions like the Max Planck Institute for Security and Privacy.
Salary and benefits
- Salaried position according to the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L), pay grade E12/E13.
- Fixed-term contract for 3 years.
- Access to an excellent research environment with award-winning scientists.
- Free German and English language courses for employees.
- Collaboration within a committed, international, and appreciative team.
- Location in the vibrant Ruhr metropolitan region.
Who can apply?
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science or a related field.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills in English.
- Background in IT security, privacy, system security, or distributed systems is preferred.
- Experience in software development (Python, Golang, Java, or C/C++) is an advantage.
- Willingness to learn German (if not already proficient).
Required documents
- Recent CV
- Cover letter describing why you are a good fit
- Transcript of records
- Certificates
When to apply
- Application deadline: November 2, 2026.
- Start date: At the earliest possible date.
How to apply
- Submit your complete application documents through the official online application portal.
- Ensure the reference number ANR 6159 is mentioned in your application.
Additional information
- The position involves a teaching load calculated according to state regulations (Lehrverpflichtungsverordnung).
- Ruhr University Bochum is an equal opportunity employer and explicitly encourages applications from women.
- Applications from individuals with disabilities are welcome.
- Interview-related costs, including travel and accommodation, are not reimbursed.
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…
- Candidates with a strong technical background in distributed systems and a passion for cybersecurity research.
- Individuals looking to work in a highly collaborative, international environment alongside world-renowned experts.
- Applicants who value a structured academic career path with clear salary scales and institutional support.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is fixed-term for three years, which is standard for PhD roles but requires planning for subsequent career steps.
- There is a mandatory teaching component as part of the role's responsibilities.
- While English is the primary research language, there is an expectation to engage with the German-speaking campus environment.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is ideal for researchers aiming to establish themselves in the field of decentralized security. It provides a direct path to a PhD while offering professional experience in teaching and project management. Being part of the CASA Cluster of Excellence and HGI offers significant networking opportunities with both academia and industry, making it a strong stepping stone for careers in cybersecurity research, high-tech startups, or specialized industry roles.
Our take
Seriously consider this if you have a solid foundation in computer science and want to pursue a PhD in a top-tier European cybersecurity hub. It is less suitable for those seeking purely industry-focused roles without teaching obligations or those unable to commit to a three-year residency in Bochum.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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