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

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

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

• Evaluate the appropriateness and the limits of the current tools and security measures related to dependency updates.
• Develop new approaches to efficiently detect supply chain vulnerabilities. To that end, Large Language Models (LLMs) will be explored.
• Develop new automated vulnerabilities scanning tool to increase confidence in open-source libraries.
• Develop new approaches for the detection of mis- and dis-information.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Degree(s) required / ideal degree(s): Master degree in Cybersecurity / in computer science, or equivalent.

This position is open for junior profiles with at least one year of experience. However, experienced 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.
• Minimum knowledge of French or Dutch is recommended (collaboration with peers).

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.

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.
• Only applicants with a nationality of a country that is both part of NATO and the EU will be eligible.
• Working for the Patrimony requires living in Belgium for the duration of the study.

APPLICATION

• Please send by email a CV to Mrs Arbia RIAHI (arbia.riahi@mil.be ) and to ERM-DEAO-STAFF-HRMGT-PATRIMONY@mil.be

• Please mention clearly the reference of the project in your email: “SOLACE” and please also precise your nationality.

• Application deadline: 31/03/2026.

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.

CONTRACT

• Probable date of recruitment: ASAP, in consultation with the applicant.
• Status: Full-time employment based on an open-ended contract with the Patrimony of the Royal Military Academy (you will not be a civil servant).
• Please note that your contract will be open-ended, but the financing of the contract will be tied to the funding project, which is guaranteed for 4 years. The financing of your contract beyond that period is therefore not 100% guaranteed. However, the Patrimony has a policy to keep the good elements on board and the research focus of this job offer fits within our core research activities, so there is a high chance that we will be able to offer you follow-up projects beyond that date if you decide to stay.
• Wage scale: class A1 (holder of a Master’s degree in Science or equivalent), class A2 (holder of an Ir degree or equivalent Master’s in Engineering Sciences, doctor’s degree in the same area of expertise). RMA-Patrimony applies a merit-based research career track, allowing researchers to advance in wage scale based upon annual evaluations.
• Holiday pay.

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