The Cryptography Research Group at University College Cork (UCC) is looking for a researcher to join the UCC Security Research Group and the Insight SFI Research Centre for Data Analytics. The position will contribute to the project Migrants’ Digital Spaces (MIGDIS), a multidisciplinary initiative exploring technology-assisted analysis of home, border, and belonging, while also contributing to Insight research objectives in privacy/security.
The successful candidate will investigate privacy risks in online digital spaces, focusing on communities that connect people across countries and those tied to specific physical locations, such as city-based forums. The research will examine potential privacy breaches, including de-anonymisation attacks, and develop countermeasures using techniques such as differential privacy and cryptographic protocols. This work will require close collaboration with social scientists and other stakeholders, ensuring that technical solutions are informed by societal and ethical considerations.
Candidates should hold a PhD in Computer Science or related disciplines and has experience in cyber security and privacy research. They should have a good track record in relevant conferences and journals and has a track record in one or more of the following research areas: privacy enhancing technologies, differential privacy, anonymity, re-identification, and/or cryptography. Previous experience in working on interdisciplinary projects is an asset.
The position is until December 2026, with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funding. Preference will be given to candidates at postdoctoral level. If the selected candidate has not yet completed their PhD, they will be appointed at the research assistant level. A budget for travel, equipment, publications and other research expenses is available as part of the project.
The Cryptography Research Group is led by Dr. Paolo Palmieri and consists of 8 researchers at doctoral and post-doctoral level. The hired researcher will be encouraged to collaborate with other members of the group, and to take a mentoring role with some of the more junior researchers. There will also be ample opportunities to work with the group’s extensive network of international collaborations. The role will be based in Insight - SFI Research Centre for Data Analytics.

Contact: Informal inquiries can be made in confidence to Dr. Paolo Palmieri, at:

How to apply: Applications should be submitted through the University portal at https://ore.ucc.ie/ (search for reference no. 092753). E-mail applications cannot be considered.

Deadline: December 19, 2025 at 12:00 (noon) Irish time. Early applications are encouraged.