Researcher in Cyberdefence (M/F/X): Project "(BEL-LUX) SOLACE-25"

CONTEXT

In the framework of the study SOLACE-25 “Software Supply Chain Security (SOLACE)”, we are looking for a full-time researcher in Cyberdefense with a Bachelor or a Master of Science in Cybersecurity / in computer science, or equivalent.

We value diversity and equal opportunities. Whether you are a man, a woman or X, or come from any background, we firmly believe that diversity enriches our community, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

PROJECT

Developers tend to trust the authenticity and integrity of third-party packages hosted on commonly-used repositories. However, attacks can be conducted by exploiting package updates to compromise dependent systems (Supply Chain Attacks) such as SolarWinds, XZ hack, etc. Then, third-party packages often have access to powerful capabilities at the operating system level to create serious vulnerabilities. The major challenge lies in the fact that the manual review of these vulnerabilities is not obvious, which amplifies their consequences.

MAIN TASKS

• Study existing detection systems and perform a comparison evaluation using a reproducible testing environment and dataset.
• Develop new approaches to detect supply chain vulnerabilities.
• Develop new approaches for the detection of mis- and dis-information campaigns aiming to spread the usage of the vulnerable library“.
• Publish results in scientific papers and conferences.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• The applicant shall have a Bachelor or a Master degree in Cybersecurity / in computer science, or equivalent.
• This position is open for junior profiles (ideally 0-3 years of experience). However, other profiles are also encouraged to apply.

“MUST HAVE” skills:

• Knowledge/Experience in AI.
• Knowledge/Experience in programming, knowledge of coding language(s) (python, ..).
• Communication abilities, in oral and written form.
• English proficiency, sufficient for writing reports and publications, as well as participating in conferences.

“NICE TO HAVE” skills:

• Training or experience in Cybersecurity.

Personal skills :

• You can develop software autonomously.
• You can conduct scientific research at a university level by searching existing literature, analyzing existing solutions in a critical way and proposing new ideas.
• You can communicate your results in a clear, concise and precise manner.
• You can work in a team and focus on its objectives.
• You are honest, loyal toward the institution and respect confidentiality.

Other skills:

• Minimum knowledge of French or Dutch is an added value for collaboration with peers.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

• The researcher may be exposed to classified information and will therefore have to obtain the required security clearance. The candidate must consent with the background check required to obtain this clearance, which will be executed by Belgian Defense. Working for the Patrimony requires living in Belgium for the duration of the study.

APPLICATION

Send by email:

• a CV;
• a scan of your ID card (both sides) or your international passport; to Mrs Arbia RIAHI (arbia.riahi@mil.be ) and to erm-deao-rswo@mil.be.

Please mention clearly the reference of the project: “BEL-LUX (SOLACE)”. Application deadline: 11/05/2025.

The interviews will take place at the Royal Military Academy, Hobbemastraat 8, 1000 Brussels. In some cases, on-line interviews can be organized. The date and time of the interview will be communicated to the preselected candidates.

WORKPLACE

• Royal Military Academy, Avenue de la Renaissance 30, 1000 Brussels;
• Occasional travels abroad for scientific conferences, etc.

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