PhDs (3 years) (m,f,x)

Cluster of Excellence CASA:
CASA: Cyber Security in the Age of Large-Scale Adversaries
In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39.83 hours/week = 100%) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for several

The Cluster of Excellence „CASA: Securing the Digital Society“ is funded by DFG for the years 2026-2032 with approximately 53 million euros. CASA aims to strengthen the resilience of our digital society. The emergence of disruptive technologies in recent years, especially artificial intelligence and quantum computers, has caused substantial new challenges for cybersecurity research. In the second funding phase, CASA will specifically address these challenges. Thematic priorities include the security of quantum technologies, protection against Al-based disinformation and societal polarization, and new approaches to defending against ransomware. In addition to technical questions, it also investigates the interaction of human behavior and cybersecurity. Research at CASA, which is based at the Horst Görtz Institute for IT Security, follows a strongly interdisciplinary approach. Researchers from the fields of computer science, cryptography, electrical engineering, mathematics, and psychology work together in a unique constellation in Europe. This holistic approach is unparalleled and holds the potential for scientific breakthroughs. Research environment: Ruhr-University Bochum (RUB) and its Faculty of Computer Science offer an excellent environment for aspiring young researchers. Some 20 years ago, the Horst Görtz Institute for IT Security (HGI) was founded here. lt is now one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions for basic computer security research. The HGI maintains extensive networks with leading research institutions worldwide and with media and industry. Moreover, it has produced numerous successful security startups. The pioneering work of the HGI forms the basis for the Cluster of Excellence CASA.

Your tasks:

• We are permanently looking for excellent M.Sc. graduates with outstanding grades and degrees in computer science, electrical engineeringmathematics and psychology (preferably with a relationship to technology) or related disciplines.
• We offer three-year positions for M.Sc. graduates. The expectation is to work towards a doctorate.

Your profile:

• An above-average Master’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, mathematics, psychology (preferably with a relationship to technology) or related disciplines is mandatory for the application. Fluent spoken and written English is also required. In addition, applicants should have at least a basic knowledge of one or more of the research areas relevant to CASA: Cryptography, system security, hardware security, decentralized security, human-centered security, Al and security.

We offer:

• Excellent research environment with award-winning scientists,
• Programs designed to support parents,
• Support measures for women in IT security,
• Excellent support for doctoral researchers,
• Opportunities for academic and professional development,
• Budget for courses, conferences, equipment and international exchange,
• Open team culture.

Further information:

The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L.

Further information can be found at https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/ (in German).

The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
If the position is funded by third-party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.

Required documents are: – Letter of motivation, – Mention at least 2 persons (supervisors, other researchers) as references (names and email addresses), – Curriculum vitae, – Master’s certificate, – Transcripts of Records (BA, MA).
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/daf/mitarbeitende/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.

Contact persons for further information:

Dr. Patrick Schulte , Tel.: +49 234 32 27722

Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.

We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-09-14. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5932.

Online application

Online application