At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cutting-edge vulnerability research and exploit development in cybersecurity.
- Company: Join a global authority in security research with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous holiday allowance, and health benefits.
- Other info: Mentorship opportunities and participation in industry competitions like Pwn2Own.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cybersecurity and advance your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of vulnerability research and experience with major CPU architectures.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
A Lead Security Researcher within the Exploit Development Group (EDG) is responsible for conducting high-impact vulnerability research and exploit development that advances the state of the art in cybersecurity. The role contributes directly to NCC Group’s reputation as a global authority in security research by delivering original research with deep technical expertise and representing the organisation externally through publications, presentations, and industry engagement. Through both long-term strategic research and short-notice tactical support, this role helps protect clients, strengthen NCC Group services and shape the wider security community.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct vulnerability research and exploit development across a range of platforms, architectures, and technologies.
- Deliver high-quality vulnerabilities and reliable exploits as part of strategic research programmes.
- Provide short-notice tactical support to consulting, professional, and managed services teams in areas such as reverse engineering and exploit development.
- Advance exploit development techniques and contribute to world-leading security research.
- Participate in vulnerability research and exploit development competitions, such as Pwn2Own.
- Publish research findings and support their internal and external promotion through articles, whitepapers, presentations, and conference talks.
- Act as a subject matter expert within NCC Group, mentoring and supporting colleagues who are developing skills in vulnerability research and exploitation.
- Collaborate effectively with multi-disciplinary teams to deliver research and client outcomes to the highest possible standard.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Strong knowledge of vulnerability research and exploitation techniques.
- Experience with major CPU architectures and operating systems or platforms.
- Ability to reverse engineer software written in both unmanaged and managed languages.
- Understanding of common programming languages, vulnerability classes and exploitation methods.
- Knowledge of modern exploitation mitigations and approaches for bypassing them.
- Ability to research and exploit unfamiliar instruction sets, programming languages and platforms.
- Clear written communication skills for documenting and presenting complex technical findings.
Benefits
- Flexible Working: Balance your work and personal life with our flexible working options.
- Generous Holiday Allowance: Enjoy 25 days of holiday, plus bank holidays, with the option to buy up to 5 additional days of annual leave.
Lead Security Researcher employer: NCC Group plc
NCC Group is an exceptional employer for a Lead Security Researcher, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of Cheltenham. With a commitment to employee growth through mentorship and opportunities to engage in high-impact research, the company provides a generous holiday allowance and flexible working options, ensuring a healthy work-life balance. Join us to be part of a leading authority in cybersecurity, where your contributions will shape the future of security research and protect clients globally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Security Researcher
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the cybersecurity community, attend meetups, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. The more connections you make, the better your chances of landing that Lead Security Researcher role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your vulnerability research and exploit development projects. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table, especially at NCC Group.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common vulnerability classes and exploitation methods. Be ready to discuss your past experiences and how they relate to the role. We want to see your passion for cybersecurity shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at NCC Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Security Researcher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead Security Researcher role. Highlight your experience in vulnerability research and exploit development, and don’t forget to mention any relevant competitions or publications you've been involved in!
Showcase Your Skills:In your application, clearly showcase your skills in reverse engineering and your knowledge of various programming languages. We want to see how you can contribute to our team with your technical expertise!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your cover letter, be clear and concise. Use straightforward language to explain your past experiences and how they relate to the responsibilities of the role. We appreciate clarity!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the Lead Security Researcher position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at NCC Group plc
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of vulnerability research and exploitation techniques. Familiarise yourself with major CPU architectures and operating systems, as well as common programming languages. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're the right fit for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to share specific examples of your past work in vulnerability research and exploit development. Highlight any competitions you've participated in, like Pwn2Own, and discuss the outcomes. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and passion for the field.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since clear written communication is key in this role, practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to present your findings or discuss your research, so being articulate will help you stand out.
✨Be a Team Player
Collaboration is crucial in this position, so be ready to discuss how you've worked effectively within multi-disciplinary teams in the past. Share examples of how you've mentored others or contributed to team projects, as this will highlight your ability to support and lead within the organisation.
