PhD in Software Systems & Security: The IMDEA Software Institute is inviting applications for a PhD position in Software Systems & Security. This role will involve research in systems security, working under the guidance of Prof. Georgios Portokalidis. Candidates will engage in innovative research to enhance operating systems and systems software.
Designation
PhD Student in Software Systems & Security (OSSEC)
Research Area
| Area | Focus |
|---|---|
| Systems Security | Research aimed at securing operating systems and systems software through vulnerability mitigation, software hardening, code analysis, and software-hardware co-design. |
| Vulnerability Mitigation | Understanding and mitigating security vulnerabilities in systems software. |
| Software Hardening | Designing and implementing runtime protections and enforcement mechanisms. |
| Code Analysis | Developing techniques to analyze and secure complex software systems. |
| Software-Hardware Co-Design | Exploring coordinated approaches across the software and hardware stack. |
Location
IMDEA Software Institute, Campus Montegancedo, s/n, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcรณn, Madrid, Spain
Eligibility/Qualification
- MSc degree in Computer Science or a closely related field, completed within the last three years (or within two years for non-EU citizens).
- Strong programming and tool-building skills, demonstrated through projects (e.g., open-source repositories, research prototypes, compilers, analysis tools).
- Experience in at least three of the following areas:
- Linux operating system and its internals
- Programming in C/C++
- Working with compiler toolchains (e.g., Clang/LLVM)
- Knowledge of computer architecture and its interaction with software
- Strong interest in systems and software security research.
Description
The selected candidate will be involved in impactful research focusing on the intersection of operating systems, compilers, software security, and software-hardware co-design. Responsibilities include working on various approaches to enhance systems security through understanding vulnerabilities, hardening software, analyzing code, and coordinating efforts between software and hardware.
How to Apply
Submit your application at IMDEA Software Careers. Choose the option “PhD Student” and use the reference code 2026-01-phd-ossec.
Last Date to Apply
- Application Deadline: 13 February 2026
- Applications will be reviewed immediately and until the position is filled.
For any inquiries, contact Prof. Georgios Portokalidis.
This comprehensive information encapsulates the scholarship opportunity at IMDEA Software Institute, facilitating a clear understanding of the role and application process.
