The field of cryptology is rapidly evolving, driven by advancements in quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and decentralized technologies. As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, the demand for skilled researchers, engineers, and academics in cryptography has never been higher. From post-quantum cryptography to secure multi-party computation and hardware security, institutions and companies worldwide are actively seeking talent to lead innovation in cryptographic research and implementation.
This comprehensive guide highlights current open positions across academia and industry—spanning PhD studentships, postdoctoral fellowships, research engineer roles, and faculty appointments—all focused on cutting-edge areas within cryptology.
🔍 Core Research Areas & Emerging Trends
Before diving into specific opportunities, it's essential to understand the dominant themes shaping today’s cryptographic landscape:
- Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC): With quantum computers threatening classical encryption schemes, PQC development is a top priority.
- Secure Multi-Party Computation (MPC) & Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKP): Enabling privacy-preserving data collaboration without exposing raw data.
- Homomorphic Encryption (FHE): Allows computation on encrypted data, critical for cloud security and AI.
- Hardware Security & Side-Channel Analysis: Protecting physical devices from fault injection and power analysis attacks.
- Cryptographic Engineering: Bridging theory with real-world implementation in embedded systems, blockchains, and networks.
- AI/ML in Cryptanalysis: Using machine learning to detect vulnerabilities or optimize cryptographic designs.
These domains form the backbone of modern cryptology research and are well-represented in the opportunities listed below.
🎓 Academic PhD & Postdoctoral Opportunities
PhD Student in 5G and Next-Generation Communication Security
University of Sheffield, UK
This PhD opportunity focuses on securing future communication systems using advanced cryptographic protocols. Candidates should hold a Master’s degree in information security, computer science, or applied mathematics and demonstrate prior research experience through publications.
Key expectations:
- Publish at top-tier venues (e.g., IEEE S&P, CCS, NDSS)
- Work on secure computation and protocol design
- Strong motivation for impactful, applied research
👉 Advance your cryptography research career with hands-on projects in secure communications.
PhD in Symmetric Cryptography over Prime Fields
Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands
This 4-year PhD program explores novel symmetric-key primitives designed for Format-Preserving Encryption (FPE), MPC, and ZK applications. The role involves both designing new ciphers and analyzing their resistance to known cryptanalytic techniques.
Ideal candidates:
- Hold or are completing a Master’s in cryptography or mathematics
- Have strong analytical and mathematical proof skills
- Are passionate about theoretical and applied aspects of symmetric crypto
Fully Funded PhD in Cryptographic Engineering
University of South Florida, USA
A fully funded position available for Fall 2025 focusing on hardware/software co-design of cryptographic systems. Research includes side-channel attacks, secure implementations, and cryptographic accelerators.
Requirements:
- Background in cryptographic engineering or hardware security
- Programming skills in C/C++, Verilog/VHDL
- Immediate availability encouraged
PhD in Frugal Cryptography
INSA Lyon, France
This unique position emphasizes energy-efficient cryptographic design—critical for sustainable computing and IoT applications. The candidate will develop tools to measure and reduce the energy footprint of cryptographic operations.
Focus areas:
- Energy-aware protocol design
- Applications in machine learning and internet communication
- Tool development for performance benchmarking
PhD Studentships at School of Cryptology
University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, China
Multiple fully funded PhD positions available with flexible start dates. Research spans symmetric-key design, post-quantum cryptography, and automated cryptanalysis tools.
Applicants need:
- Strong programming and mathematical background
- Fluency in technical English
- Demonstrated interest in collaborative research
🔬 Postdoctoral Research Roles
Postdoc in Applied Cryptography
National Sun Yat-sen University, Taiwan
Seeking a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in post-quantum cryptography, automotive security, or side-channel analysis. Requires a PhD from a top-ranked institution and a strong publication record in JCR-Q1 journals or major security conferences.
Deadline: August 15, 2025
Postdoc in Provable Security of Symmetric Cryptography
Xiamen University, China
Two 2-year postdoc positions focused on authenticated encryption, message authentication codes (MACs), and hash function security. Ideal for candidates with publications in IACR conferences (CRYPTO, EUROCRYPT).
Contact: Dr. Yaobin Shen
Postdoctoral Scholar in Quantum-Resistant Cryptography
Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), Japan
Joint project with EPITA Research Lab (France) on hybrid protocols combining classical crypto, PQC, and satellite-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). The role requires experience in protocol design and benchmarking.
Duration: 2 years (extendable)
Fully Funded Postdoc in FHE & zk-SNARKs
Monash University, Australia
ARC-funded project exploring FHE-based private cloud computing with integration of zero-knowledge proofs. Candidates must have research experience in lattice-based cryptography or FHE.
Application deadline: April 21, 2025
💼 Industry & Applied Research Positions
Quantum Cybersecurity Engineer
LuxQuantum, Luxembourg
Startup building solutions that integrate QKD and PQC to overcome interoperability challenges. This role demands innovation at the intersection of quantum technologies and network security.
You’ll contribute to:
- Developing secure quantum communication stacks
- Collaborating in a small, agile team
- Publishing and prototyping next-gen cybersecurity tools
Cryptographic Research Architect – Open Quantum Safe
University of Waterloo, Canada
Two-year role working on the open-source liboqs library. Responsibilities include integrating NIST-standardized PQC algorithms, benchmarking performance, and contributing to global standardization efforts.
Salary: $80,000–$115,000 CAD/year
Priority given to candidates legally entitled to work in Canada.
👉 Explore high-impact roles where cryptography meets real-world blockchain security.
Applied Cryptographer
Blockstream
Join the team advancing Bitcoin’s long-term security through post-quantum cryptography. You’ll adapt academic research into practical Bitcoin improvements (e.g., threshold signatures, Taproot) and contribute to BIPs.
Key skills:
- Deep knowledge of PQC
- Implementation experience in C/Rust
- Active participation in open-source communities
Senior Embedded Researcher, PQC Engineering
Comcast, Philadelphia
Lead R&D efforts in post-quantum cryptography for embedded systems. Focus includes algorithm evaluation, performance optimization, and integration into existing infrastructure.
Requires:
- Expertise in embedded systems
- Experience with PQC standards (NIST finalists)
- Strong software engineering background
Research Scientist – Privacy Enhancing Technologies
Nokia Bell Labs, Belgium
Full-time role developing systems based on ZKPs, FHE, or MPC. Must be comfortable turning theoretical constructs into deployable solutions.
Note: On-site position; remote work not permitted.
🏫 Faculty & Long-Term Academic Appointments
Tenure-Track Position in Hardware Security
Jean-Monnet University, France
Rare 5-year tenure-track Associate Professor role with minimal teaching load (64 hours/year), allowing deep focus on research. Part of Europe’s leading hardware security group (SESAM).
Candidates must have:
- At least 5 years of postdoctoral experience
- Outstanding publication record
- Vision for securing embedded systems against hardware-software attack vectors
Start date: November 2025
Faculty Position in Cybersecurity
Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), Spain
Multiple openings for researchers who can teach and lead in cybersecurity, AI, and IoT. Part of a European Digital Europe Programme-funded MSc initiative.
Offers hybrid work model (up to 40% remote) and support for transitioning to tenure track.
🌐 Collaborative & Interdisciplinary Projects
Biosecurity Cryptography Fellow
MuseMatrix (Remote)
Unpaid 3–6 month fellowship exploring ZKPs and MPC for biosecurity applications like outbreak modeling and decentralized biosurveillance. No prior biosecurity knowledge required—only strong crypto fundamentals.
Opportunity to transition into a funded startup upon successful prototype delivery.
Ideal for:
- Masters/PhD/postdoc-level cryptographers
- Those comfortable working part-time alongside other commitments
Research Assistant – Blockchain UI/UX & Full Stack Development
Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Two roles supporting blockchain technology research:
- UI/UX Engineer: Design intuitive interfaces for decentralized apps
- Junior Full Stack Developer: Build web3 applications using React, Node.js, and smart contracts
Both require portfolios and blockchain familiarity.
✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are these positions open to international applicants?
A: Most academic positions welcome international applicants. However, some industry roles (e.g., Comcast, Nokia) may require local work authorization. Always verify eligibility before applying.
Q: Do I need prior experience in quantum cryptography to apply for PQC roles?
A: Not necessarily. While familiarity helps, many roles prioritize strong foundations in classical cryptography and a willingness to learn emerging paradigms.
Q: Are there fully funded PhD programs available?
A: Yes—many universities listed here offer full funding including stipends, tuition waivers, health insurance, and travel support.
Q: How important are publications when applying for postdoc roles?
A: Extremely. Top-tier publications (e.g., at CRYPTO, CCS, IEEE S&P) significantly strengthen your application for competitive postdoctoral positions.
Q: Can I apply for multiple positions simultaneously?
A: Absolutely. Many researchers apply to several labs or institutions concurrently to maximize opportunities.
👉 Discover how your cryptographic expertise can unlock next-generation security innovations.
Final Thoughts
The global demand for cryptographers continues to surge across academia, government agencies, and tech enterprises. Whether you're pursuing a PhD, advancing as a postdoc, or entering industry R&D, now is an exciting time to shape the future of digital trust.
From quantum-safe algorithms to privacy-preserving AI systems, these open positions represent the frontier of secure computation—and your chance to be part of it.
Apply early, tailor your materials to each role, and emphasize both technical depth and collaborative potential. The next breakthrough in cryptology could come from you.