Our group at the University of Kassel is looking for motivated candidates for a PhD position.
About the Position:
The PhD position will be funded for 3 years and paid according to E13 TV-H Hessen.
The candidate will do research on (password-based) key exchange protocols and related primitives (such as public-key encryption and digital signatures).
It is expected to publish research results at major conferences in cryptography and IT security, such as Crypto, Eurocrypt, Asiacrypt, ACM CCS, etc..
In addition, the candidate will support the teaching activities of the group, e.g., serving as a teaching assistant and (co-)supervising student seminars, projects, and bachelor’s and master’s theses.
Funding is available for conference travel and research stays.
Your Profile:
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with:
A master’s degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Mathematics, or other related fields. We encourage candidates who will finish their master degree in 2026 to apply.
A strong background in public-key cryptography and provable security or abstract algebra.
Prior knowledge in any of the relevant areas is highly desirable, including key exchange protocols, lattices, isogenies, quantum random oracle techniques, and tight security proofs.
Very good English proficiency (German is not required but beneficial).
The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Starting Date: As soon as possible. The starting date is negotiable, provided it is within 2026.
Interested?
Please send the following documents to me via email:
A motivation letter (that describes your research interests and why you would like to work with our group)
A curriculum vitae
Academic transcripts and certificates
Contact details of 1–2 academic referees (At least one should be your thesis supervisor)
Review of applications will start on February 26, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. Applications received by February 26, 2026 will receive full consideration. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.