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PhD Position in Code-Based Cryptography

  • Faculty of Science
  • 14871
  • Master's
  • €3.059 - €3.881
  • Closes on
    01-05-2026
Apply

PhD Position in Code-Based Cryptography

  • Faculty of Science
  • 14871
  • Master's
  • €3.059 - €3.881
  • Closes on
    01-05-2026
Apply

Working at the UvA

Join us!

Cryptography’s task is to provide tools for maintaining the privacy and integrity of digital data. Unfortunately, almost all currently deployed public-key cryptography is known to be vulnerable if an attacker has access to a quantum computer. Given the near-term deployment of quantum computing technologies, the time to deploy post-quantum secure cryptography is now. Further, in a world with quantum computers, one can hope to find new cryptographic powers by exploiting quantum phenomena.

Code-based cryptography not only offers plausible security against quantum attacks; it also leads to practically efficient implementations of powerful cryptography such as secure multiparty computation and (non-)interactive proofs. However, our theory of its security is severely wanting. Firstly, unlike its close cousin of lattice-based cryptography, we lack a satisfactory theory of security reductions. Secondly, many recent proposals lack sufficient cryptanalysis. A possible direction of this PhD project is to fill in these holes and thereby offer a better foundation for the security of code-based cryptography.

The PhD candidate will greatly benefit from the active and growing community of theoretical computer science researchers within Amsterdam. Specifically, nearby experts from the CWI cryptology group and QuSoft will offer fertile collaborations on these topics.

Working at the UvA

Join us!

Cryptography’s task is to provide tools for maintaining the privacy and integrity of digital data. Unfortunately, almost all currently deployed public-key cryptography is known to be vulnerable if an attacker has access to a quantum computer. Given the near-term deployment of quantum computing technologies, the time to deploy post-quantum secure cryptography is now. Further, in a world with quantum computers, one can hope to find new cryptographic powers by exploiting quantum phenomena.

Code-based cryptography not only offers plausible security against quantum attacks; it also leads to practically efficient implementations of powerful cryptography such as secure multiparty computation and (non-)interactive proofs. However, our theory of its security is severely wanting. Firstly, unlike its close cousin of lattice-based cryptography, we lack a satisfactory theory of security reductions. Secondly, many recent proposals lack sufficient cryptanalysis. A possible direction of this PhD project is to fill in these holes and thereby offer a better foundation for the security of code-based cryptography.

The PhD candidate will greatly benefit from the active and growing community of theoretical computer science researchers within Amsterdam. Specifically, nearby experts from the CWI cryptology group and QuSoft will offer fertile collaborations on these topics.

All about this vacancy

This is what you will do

You are expected to:

  • carry out original research in the field of theoretical computer science;
  • have strong analytical and mathematical skills;
  • proactively seek out collaborators and, in due time, research topics worthy of study;
  • take part in ongoing educational activities, such as assisting in courses and guiding student theses at the BSc or MSc level;
  • be an active participant in the theoretical computer science field of research, publishing in peer-reviewed international journals and presenting at top-level conferences;
  • take part in committees and carry out departmental administrative tasks as directed.

What we ask of you

We are looking for a candidate with:

  • an MSc in computer science, mathematics, or a related field;
  • a strong scientific interest in the theory of computing;
  • strong academic performance in university-level courses in computer science, mathematics, and other related fields;
  • a demonstrated ability to carry out cutting-edge research;
  • the willingness to work collaboratively with other researchers;
  • professional command of English and good presentation skills.

This is what we offer you

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). The preferred starting date is as soon as possible. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,059 to € 3,881 (scale P). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile PhD Candidate is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

Curious about our extensive secondary benefits package? You can read more about it here.

All about this vacancy

This is what you will do

You are expected to:

  • carry out original research in the field of theoretical computer science;
  • have strong analytical and mathematical skills;
  • proactively seek out collaborators and, in due time, research topics worthy of study;
  • take part in ongoing educational activities, such as assisting in courses and guiding student theses at the BSc or MSc level;
  • be an active participant in the theoretical computer science field of research, publishing in peer-reviewed international journals and presenting at top-level conferences;
  • take part in committees and carry out departmental administrative tasks as directed.

What we ask of you

We are looking for a candidate with:

  • an MSc in computer science, mathematics, or a related field;
  • a strong scientific interest in the theory of computing;
  • strong academic performance in university-level courses in computer science, mathematics, and other related fields;
  • a demonstrated ability to carry out cutting-edge research;
  • the willingness to work collaboratively with other researchers;
  • professional command of English and good presentation skills.

This is what we offer you

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). The preferred starting date is as soon as possible. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,059 to € 3,881 (scale P). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile PhD Candidate is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

Curious about our extensive secondary benefits package? You can read more about it here.

Your place at the UvA

You will work in this team

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

The mission of the Informatics Institute (IvI) is to perform curiosity-driven and use-inspired fundamental research in Computer Science. The main research themes are Artificial Intelligence, Computational Science and Systems and Network Engineering. Our research involves complex information systems at large, with a focus on collaborative, data driven, computational and intelligent systems, all with a strong interactive component.

The Theory of Computer Science (TCS) group does research on the theoretical foundations of computer science. The aim is to seek greater understanding of the fundamental computational techniques and their inherent limitations.

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

More about the UvA

The University of Amsterdam is ambitious, creative and committed. An inspiration to students since 1632, a vanguard player in international science and a partner in innovation.
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest range of courses on offer. An intellectual hub with 42,000 students, 6,000 staff and 3,000 PhD students. Connected by a culture of curiosity.

Your place at the UvA

This is where you will be working

You will work in this team

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

The mission of the Informatics Institute (IvI) is to perform curiosity-driven and use-inspired fundamental research in Computer Science. The main research themes are Artificial Intelligence, Computational Science and Systems and Network Engineering. Our research involves complex information systems at large, with a focus on collaborative, data driven, computational and intelligent systems, all with a strong interactive component.

The Theory of Computer Science (TCS) group does research on the theoretical foundations of computer science. The aim is to seek greater understanding of the fundamental computational techniques and their inherent limitations.

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

More about the UvA

The University of Amsterdam is ambitious, creative and committed. An inspiration to students since 1632, a vanguard player in international science and a partner in innovation.
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest range of courses on offer. An intellectual hub with 42,000 students, 6,000 staff and 3,000 PhD students. Connected by a culture of curiosity.

Important to know

Your application & contact

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 1 May 2026. The reviewing process will begin on 20 March 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.

Applications should include the following information:

  • a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
  • a letter of motivation (at most 1 page) explaining why you are interested in this position;
  • a list of publications;
  • a report from a research project you have done (e.g., your Master thesis);
  • the names and email addresses of two or three references who can provide letters of recommendation.

Please make sure to provide ALL requested documents mentioned above. You can use the CV field to upload all requested documents, including the motivation letter, as one single pdf file.

Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered. Please do not send any applications by email.

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure.
(for details: national knowledge security guidelines)

Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.

If you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

As an employer, the UvA maintains an equal opportunities policy. We value diversity and are fully committed to being a place where everyone feels at home. We nurture inquisitive minds and perseverance and allow room for persistent questioning. With us, curiosity and creativity are the prevailing culture.
Read more
Studies show that women and members of underrepresented groups only apply for jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Do you meet the educational requirements but not yet all of the requested experience? The UvA encourages you to apply anyway.

Important to know

Your application & contact

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 1 May 2026. The reviewing process will begin on 20 March 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.

Applications should include the following information:

  • a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
  • a letter of motivation (at most 1 page) explaining why you are interested in this position;
  • a list of publications;
  • a report from a research project you have done (e.g., your Master thesis);
  • the names and email addresses of two or three references who can provide letters of recommendation.

Please make sure to provide ALL requested documents mentioned above. You can use the CV field to upload all requested documents, including the motivation letter, as one single pdf file.

Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered. Please do not send any applications by email.

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure.
(for details: national knowledge security guidelines)

Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.

If you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

As an employer, the UvA maintains an equal opportunities policy. We value diversity and are fully committed to being a place where everyone feels at home. We nurture inquisitive minds and perseverance and allow room for persistent questioning. With us, curiosity and creativity are the prevailing culture.
Studies show that women and members of underrepresented groups only apply for jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Do you meet the educational requirements but not yet all of the requested experience? The UvA encourages you to apply anyway.

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