Summary
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam invites applications for a PhD position focused on developing formal methods to systematically describe concurrent cryptographic protocols and reason about their security. This research-intensive role involves contributing to cutting-edge advancements in computer science, participating in dissemination activities, and offering light supervision to students.
Designation
PhD Candidate
Scholarship Details
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam |
| Department | Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Science |
| Funding | Fully Funded (Salary provided) |
| Duration | Initially 18 months, extendable to 4 years |
| Salary | € 3.059,00 (1st year) to € 3.881,00 (4th year) gross per month (full-time) |
| Working Hours | 38-hour full-time week (or 40 hours with extra holiday) |
| Benefits | 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, solid pension scheme (ABP), personalized benefits package, commuting expenses contribution. |
| Start Date | 01/09/2026 or as agreed upon |
Research Area
Formal Methods for Concurrent Cryptographic Protocols
The project aims to create formal reasoning principles for concurrent cryptographic protocols, ensuring their security through systematic description and analysis. This involves advanced computer science research with applications in security and privacy.
Location
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Eligibility/Qualification
- A Master’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related subject.
- Experience with functional programming (e.g., Haskell) or proof assistants (e.g., Coq, Agda, Lean).
- Good communication skills in English.
- Optional: Experience with cryptography, security, or concurrent programming.
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam values diversity and encourages applicants from all backgrounds, even if they do not meet every single requirement, provided they identify with the profile.
Scholarship Description
The successful candidate will conduct research focused on developing formal reasoning principles for concurrent cryptographic protocols. Key responsibilities include:
- Carrying out research towards the project goals.
- Participating in the dissemination of results through conferences, research visits, and publications.
- Performing light supervision duties for Bachelor and/or Master students.
- Supporting courses as a teaching assistant (maximum two periods per year).
This challenging position offers an opportunity to contribute to education, research, and service for a better world within a socially engaged organization. The employment contract is initially for 18 months, with the possibility of extension to a total of 4 years, culminating in the submission of a dissertation.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their application through the official Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam application portal. Applications received via email will not be considered. Required application materials typically include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Contact information for 2 referees
For questions regarding the vacancy, you may contact Sabine Oechsner or Kristina Sojakova (contact details provided on the original vacancy page).
Last Date for Apply
October 30, 2026
