EngD Position in a groundbreaking project with Dutch Tax Authority to Design a (Post) Quantum Cryptography Toolset and Framework

Job description

The rapid evolution of computing technologies, particularly quantum computing, has raised significant concerns about the security of traditional cryptographic methods. Public sector organizations, including the Dutch Tax Authority (Belastingdienst), rely heavily on various applications and infrastructure to manage sensitive data. To address the imminent challenges posed by quantum computing, we are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Engineering Doctorate (EngD) candidate to lead this groundbreaking project.

The primary objective of this project is to create a functional toolset and framework, to empower Dutch Tax Authority to assess the maturity and vulnerability of their application landscape and infrastructure concerning emerging cryptographic challenges and guide them in the transition to the secure paradigm of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC).

The success of this project will contribute to the overarching goal of the Engineering Doctorate program: advancing engineering practice through innovative, applicable solutions to real-world challenges.

The following questions will be addressed:

1. What are the specific vulnerabilities in existing cryptographic methods when exposed to quantum computing threats, and how do these vulnerabilities affect the security of applications and infrastructure within the Dutch Tax Authority's ecosystem?
2. What criteria and metrics should be established to determine the maturity level of cryptographic mechanisms within applications, enabling a structured evaluation of their readiness to transition to post-quantum cryptography?
3. What strategies and methodologies should be adopted to facilitate a smooth transition from traditional cryptographic methods to post-quantum cryptography, ensuring both security and operational continuity within the Dutch Tax Authority's ecosystem?

Your profile

We look forward to welcoming a dedicated researcher to contribute significantly to advancing cybersecurity in the public sector and pioneer secure digital transformation in an era of rapid technological change.

We are searching for the best MSc graduate with:

• A strong background in computer science, information security or related fields.
• Familiarity with cryptographic concepts, including quantum computing and cybersecurity protocols.
• Proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Python, Java) and experience with software development.

Important professional skills are:

• Dutch and English language skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration abilities, including stakeholder engagement.

Our offer

• We offer a contract for 24 months. During these two years you follow a tailor-made post-master design program with a combination of education (50%) and working on a design project (50%). You will be primarily based at the premises of the Dutch Tax Authority.
• Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU).
• You will receive a gross monthly salary of €2.618,- per month.
• There are excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme.
• On successfully completing the programme, you will receive a certified degree. You will be entitled to use the academic degree EngD and will be registered as a Technological Designer in the Dutch register kept by the Royal Institution of Engineers in the Netherlands (KIVI).

Information and application

Will you be part of this unique project? Applications for this position will be reviewed on a rolling horizon. The vacancy will remain open until we identify and onboard suitable candidates. Early applications are encouraged as this position may be filled before the vacancy's official closure. You can apply to this position before January 6th, 2024, by clicking the ‘apply now’ button below. 

If you have any further questions about this vacancy of the EngD program in Business & IT, please contact Mohammed Elhajj (m.elhajj@utwente.nl).

Please submit your detailed CV, cover letter and academic transcripts.

About the organisation

The faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) uses mathematics, electronics and computer technology to contribute to the development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). With ICT present in almost every device and product we use nowadays, we embrace our role as contributors to a broad range of societal activities and as pioneers of tomorrow's digital society. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.