International Association
for Cryptologic Research

We are looking for motivated, bright, and hard-working student that wish to pursue a PhD in Cryptography. The candidate will work on cryptographic research topics such as:

• zero-knowledge proofs & SNARKs
• polynomial/vector commitments & lookup arguments
• searchable encryption
• encrypted database query evaluation
• TEE-assisted cryptography

Other areas are possible, the specific research topic will be determined based on the common interests of the candidate and the supervisor.

Applicant's profile

• MSc or BSc degree in Computer Science or related field.
• Excellent programming skills.
• Very good understanding of CS fundamentals: algorithm analysis, data structures, etc.
• Good understanding of cryptographic primitives: hashing, encryption, commitments, etc.
• Strong enthusiasm for research.

Ideal candidates have prior knowledge in implementing cryptographic primitives or a relevant project. Solid background in theoretical computer science (complexity analysis, reduction proofs, etc.), or experience in programming for trusted-hardware environments (Intel SGX, ARM TrustZone, etc.) is also a big plus.

Work environment

HKUST offers guaranteed funding for the PhD duration with competitive stipends. Our CSE department consistently ranks very high in global Computer Science and Engineering rankings. Our graduates typically produce research output of the highest quality and consistently staff world-class institutions. The lab offers a creative work environment that is ideal for excellent research.

Interested applicants, please send your CV and a short research statement to Prof. Dimitrios Papadopoulos.