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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate telecom systems to uncover hidden vulnerabilities and prototype custom tools.
- Company: Join a leading telecom security firm with a focus on innovation and flexibility.
- Benefits: Flexible work options, great work-life balance, and opportunities for continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cybersecurity while exploring cutting-edge technologies.
- Qualifications: Curiosity, technical skills, and experience with cryptographic algorithms and ethical exploitation tools.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Deep Dive into Telecom Systems – You’ll have the freedom and time to investigate our carrier‑grade telecom infrastructure, uncovering vulnerabilities that others might miss. Your work will be thorough, precise, and impactful.
- Work Within Flexible Frameworks – Rather than rigid tasks, you’ll operate within broad themes and scopes—giving you the autonomy to shift focus as new insights emerge and opportunities arise.
- Prototype Your Own Tools – You’ll build and experiment with custom tooling—like novel fuzzers or software radio interfaces—often using obscure frameworks and languages to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
- Learn Continuously – You’ll dissect systems to understand how they fail and what it takes to secure them. Every project is a chance to grow your expertise and contribute to long‑term security advancements.
Successful Applicants must be able to commute to the UKTL offices in Birmingham at least twice a week. We strive to offer a great work life balance – if you are looking for full time, part time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where business possible. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in.
About You
- You’re curious, driven, and passionate about uncovering how things work—and how they break.
- You thrive in complex technical environments and enjoy pushing boundaries to discover vulnerabilities others overlook.
- You comprehend what protocols are doing beneath the surface and can break down how systems communicate.
- You apply structured research methodologies to explore novel technologies and uncover hidden risks.
- You bring applied knowledge of cryptographic algorithms—encryption, authentication, signatures—and know how they can be misused.
- You’re comfortable with data structures, distributed systems, and modern infrastructure like virtualisation and containerisation.
- You understand network protocols and how software works—from low‑level assembly to high‑level interpreted languages.
- You’re familiar with memory corruption bugs and know how attackers bypass protections like ASLR, stack canaries, and heap guards.
- You know your way around Linux internals and can pick up any programming language when given the right resources.
- You’ve used ethical exploitation tools and techniques across both low‑level software and web platforms.
- You’ve got reverse engineering experience and are confident using tools like IDA Pro, Ghidra, or even just source code analysis.
Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical. We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in this specific area means that nationality, residency and security requirements are more tightly defined than others. To work in this role, you will need to have a DV clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain a DV clearance.
Vulnerability Researcher (UKTL) employer: National Physical Laboratory
Contact Detail:
National Physical Laboratory Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vulnerability Researcher (UKTL)
✨Tip Number 1
Get your hands dirty with practical projects! Dive into personal or open-source projects that showcase your skills in vulnerability research. This not only builds your portfolio but also gives you real-world experience to chat about during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend industry meetups, conferences, or online webinars related to telecom systems and security. Connecting with professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities and insider tips on landing that perfect role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills! Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help you articulate your thoughts clearly. Focus on explaining complex concepts simply, as this shows your deep understanding of the subject matter.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing passionate candidates who are eager to join our team. Tailor your application to highlight your curiosity and technical prowess, and don’t forget to mention any unique tools or methodologies you've used in your research.
We think you need these skills to ace Vulnerability Researcher (UKTL)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Curiosity: We want to see your passion for uncovering how things work and break. In your application, share examples of your curiosity in action—whether it's a project you tackled or a vulnerability you discovered. Let us know what drives you!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to align your skills and experiences with the job description. Highlight your knowledge of cryptographic algorithms, network protocols, and any relevant tools you've used. We love seeing how your background fits into our flexible frameworks!
Be Clear and Precise: When detailing your experiences, clarity is key! Use straightforward language to explain your technical skills and projects. We appreciate thoroughness, so don’t shy away from being detailed about your methodologies and outcomes.
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We review applications as they come in, so applying early gives you a better chance. Head over to our website and get your application in—we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of telecom systems and network protocols. Be ready to discuss how they work and the common vulnerabilities associated with them. This will show your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Show Off Your Curiosity
During the interview, demonstrate your curiosity by asking insightful questions about their current projects and challenges. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to highlight your problem-solving skills and how you can contribute.
✨Prepare for Technical Challenges
Expect to face some technical questions or even practical tests related to vulnerability research. Brush up on your reverse engineering skills and be prepared to discuss tools like IDA Pro or Ghidra. Practising these skills beforehand will give you the confidence to tackle any challenge thrown your way.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility
Since the role involves working within flexible frameworks, be sure to highlight your adaptability. Share examples of how you've successfully shifted focus in past projects when new insights emerged, showcasing your ability to thrive in dynamic environments.