Postdoctoral Researcher in Machine Learning Security & Testing

About the SnT

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT) at the University of Luxembourg is a leading international research and innovation centre in secure, reliable and trustworthy ICT systems and services.
We play an instrumental role in Europe by fueling innovation through research partnerships with industry, boosting RandD investments leading to economic growth, and attracting highly qualified talent. We look for researchers from diverse academic backgrounds to contribute to our projects in areas such as: Network Security, Information Assurance, Model-driven Security, Cloud Computing, Cryptography, Satellite Systems, Vehicular Networks, and ICT Services & Applications.

Your role

The successful candidate will join the Serval research group and work on a large research project related to Machine Learning Security and Testing. The project involves the study of technical methods and approaches for testing the reliability (in particular, the security) of machine learning systems (including generative AI and large language models) against various threats that may occur in the real-world. Successful candidates will extensively explore and develop software security and testing techniques for machine learning systems. These investigations include the feasibility, practicality and success evaluation of prototype implementations. We expect the candidate to publish in competitive machine learning and security venues, such as Neurips, ICML, ICLR, Security & Privacy, USENIX Security, CCS, etc. More generally, the project is part of a large initiative at Serval and SnT, which aims to support the reliable deployment of machine learning systems by providing industry actors with practical evaluation tools, such as technical testing platforms for AI.

The position holder will be required to perform the following tasks/will do research on the following topics:

• Quality assurance practices for machine learning
• Define quality and security principles for machine learning systems
• Design and implement technical testing algorithms to assess these systems in real-world conditions.

Under the direction of their supervisor, the candidate will carry out research activities, including tool development, and write research papers in the area of machine learning. This includes conducting literature surveys and establishing state-of-the-art; developing necessary experimental and simulation facilities where required; planning, executing, and analyzing experiments and simulations; conducting joint and independent research activities; contributing to project deliverables, milestones, demonstrations, and meetings; disseminating results at international scientific conferences/workshops and peer reviewed scientific publications.

For further information, please contact Dr. Maxime Cordy

Your profile

• PhD in Computer Science, with a thesis related to machine learning, software engineering, software security or a related area
• Strong programming and analytical skills
• Excellent publication record in the areas related to the project
• Industry experience in information and communication technology will be considered as an advantage
• Commitment, team working, a critical mind, and motivation are skills that are more than welcome
• Knowledge of both the basics and the latest developments of machine learning, in particular large language models and other generative AI models

Language Skills: Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English are required.

We offer

• Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the "University of the Greater Region" (UniGR)
• A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Full CV, including list of publications
• Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken
• Research statement and topics of particular interest to the candidate (300 words)

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 18 Month (extension possible up to 60 months)
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Kirchberg Campus
• Internal Title: Postdoctoral researcher
• Job Reference: UOL06961

The yearly gross salary for every Postdoctoral Researcher at the UL is EUR 83099 (full time).