Postdoctoral Researcher or Doctoral Researcher, Post-quantum cryptography, ITEE

The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 3,600 employees who produce new knowledge based on high-standards research and provide research based education to build a more sustainable, smarter, and more humane world. The University of Oulu community has about 17,000 people in total. Our northern scientific community operates globally and creates conditions for the emergence of innovations.  

We are now looking for

a postdoctoral researcher or doctoral researcher in post-quantum cryptography

to join us in the Biomimetics and Intelligent Systems Research Unit and the Oulu University Secure Programming Group (OUSPG)

About the job

As a researcher, you will

• Conduct research related to post-quantum cryptography, cryptographic protocols, and provable security.
• Contribute to the planning and execution of workshops and the dissemination of project results.
• Prepare scientific publications and reports summarizing research findings.
• Present research results at conferences and meetings.
• Collaborate effectively with other researchers within the project consortium.
• Contribute to cybersecurity teaching.

What we offer?

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team of over 20 people, where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture, and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and close ones in settling into Oulu.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• We have an HR Excellence in Research -quality label, which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers. 
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

To succeed and enjoy as a doctoral researcher, we expect from you:

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or Mathematics 
• Strong background in post-quantum cryptography and provable security.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken).
• Teaching skills
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)  

To succeed and enjoy as a postdoctoral researcher, we expect from you:

• Doctoral degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or Mathematics. The degree must be obtained no more than 10 years ago.  
• Proven ability to conduct independent research and publish scientific results
• Strong background in post-quantum cryptography and provable security.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken).
• Teaching skills 

For both positions, we also appreciate:

• Knowledge of contemporary cryptographic protocols, post-quantum cryptography (PQC) algorithms, and standards.
• Experience with programming languages, quantum computing, and quantum computing frameworks. 
• Experience in disseminating scientific knowledge to industry stakeholders.
• Teaching experience. 

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 3 years as of 1.9.2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The salary will be based on the levels 2-4 (for doctoral researchers) or the levels 5-6 (for postdoctoral researchers) of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approximately  2600-2900 € per month for doctoral researchers and 3700-4200 € per month for postdoctoral researchers (before taxes).  

A trial period of 6 months is applied for the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 8.6.2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

1. CV, following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity 
2. Cover letter
3. List of publications, following the guidelines of the Academy of Finland 
4. Certificates/Diplomas
5. Statement of research intent, 1-2 pages
6. Contact information of 2 persons available for recommendation

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, such as people of different ages, different genders, and members of different languages, cultural or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Lecturer Juha Partala, ITEE/BISG, [email protected] or Prof. Kimmo Halunen, ITEE/BISG, [email protected]