At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and implement secure cryptographic software for cutting-edge technology.
- Company: Join PQShield, a pioneering deep tech startup in the semiconductor industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, private health insurance, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Work directly with founders and gain unparalleled learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team shaping the future of cryptography.
- Qualifications: Master's or PhD in computer science or related field; strong cryptography background required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants
About the role
We are looking for a Cryptography Software Engineer to join our team to help design and implement the next generation of secure Embedded Software implementations of Classic & Post Quantum Cryptography.
About the role
We are looking for a Cryptography Software Engineer to join our team to help design and implement the next generation of secure Embedded Software implementations of Classic & Post Quantum Cryptography.
We have been established since 2018, so you would be directly working with the founders and inventors of this deep tech startup. The technology is already a couple of years in the making, its feasibility having been established, funding secured, and it has a clear path to market. This is a great opportunity for career progression and to get a head start in a rapidly expanding segment of the semiconductor industry (Post-Quantum Cryptography and RISC-V).
Our platform IP components come together as a RISC-V MCU based Sub-system with advanced (post-quantum) cryptography algorithm support and security features.
As a Senior Software Engineer at PQShield, you will be designing and developing secure solutions, helping to develop software solutions working seamlessly through the entire software development life cycle. You will assist with the development of PQShield\'s core software cryptography libraries. Responsibilities include developing internal tools to support the build, test and security analysis of PQShield\'s software products.
️ What you\'ll be doing
- Design, implement, and test classical and post-quantum cryptographic primitives with a strong emphasis on functional correctness, interoperability, and optimized performance across software environments.
- Develop and integrate cryptographic solutions on hardware platforms, including FPGA and hardware cryptographic coprocessors, with a focus on acceleration and secure implementation on ARM and RISC-V architectures.
- Harden cryptographic implementations against side-channel analysis (SCA), fault injection attacks (FIA), and other physical or logical threats through constant-time design and other countermeasures.
- Ensuring integration with cryptographic system and application API\'s, for example: GlobalPlatform, ARM Platform Security Architecture, Linux Kernel drivers
- Collaborate with cryptographers, security engineers, and cross-functional teams—including hardware, verification, and platform security—to review, validate, and harden cryptographic implementations.
- Contribute to performance benchmarking and optimization across multiple platforms.
- Contribute to design and code review meetings to improve cryptographic software quality, architecture, and development processes.
- Perform and support security-focused code reviews, including static and dynamic analysis, and apply formal methods such as model checking where applicable.
- Maintain and enhance existing cryptographic software, ensuring robustness, security, and performance across supported platforms.
- Support compliance with relevant security standards (e.g., FIPS, ISO/IEC, NIST PQC).
- Participate in threat modeling and risk assessments related to cryptographic software.
Required Skills And Qualifications
- Master\'s or PhD degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field, with a strong background in cryptography or computer security.
- Proficiency in C and Assembly, with a focus on resource-constrained, bare-metal environments. Experience with Rust is nice to have.
- Familiarity with classical and post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, including NIST PQC candidates, and a solid understanding of NIST and FIPS publications and compliance requirements.
- Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills.
Preferred Skills And Qualifications
- Experience with secure coding practices and countermeasures against implementation attacks.
- Solid understanding of side-channel attacks (timing, power, EM), fault attacks, and corresponding mitigation strategies.
- Hands-on experience with or working knowledge of security certification frameworks such as FIPS 140-3, SESIP, PSA Certified, or Common Criteria.
- Ability to read and implement specifications from cryptographic research papers.
- 2+ years of professional experience in cryptographic software engineering is preferred; however, we assess seniority primarily based on your depth of knowledge, hands-on experience, and problem-solving skills rather than just years worked.
Some of the perks of working with us:
- Unparalleled opportunities to learn and accelerated career development.
- A collaborative, team environment with people who truly love what they do.
- Competitive salary and share option scheme.
- Flexible and hybrid working, and a working from home budget.
- Private health insurance for yourself and your family.
- 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays and two wellness weeks).
- 50% gym membership discount.
- The chance to work with a spirited, smart, and friendly team!
PQShield is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We\'re passionate about talent and proud to foster an inclusive environment; all applicants will be considered regardless of their gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, and age.
Seniority level
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Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
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Employment type
Full-time
Job function
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Job function
Engineering and Information Technology
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Industries
Computer and Network Security
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Cryptography Software Engineer in Oxford employer: PQShield
At PQShield, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration. Our team in the United Kingdom enjoys a dynamic work environment where creativity is encouraged, alongside opportunities for accelerated career growth and competitive salaries. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking company that values hands-on curiosity and offers unique challenges in the field of security-critical design verification.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cryptography Software Engineer in Oxford
✨Get Involved in the Cybersecurity Community
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✨Show Off Your Skills with Capture the Flag Competitions
Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions; these are not just a fun way to boost your skills but also a chance to showcase your talent to potential employers. Many companies, including PQShield, love seeing candidates who actively engage in these challenges.
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✨Apply Directly Through PQShield
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at PQShield. Applying directly can sometimes give you an edge, especially if you can mention that you've been following our work or engaging in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Cryptography Software Engineer in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your technical skills:In cybersecurity, it's crucial to highlight your technical prowess. Make sure your CV showcases specific skills like network security, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If you have relevant certifications (like CEH or CISSP), pop those on the front page to grab attention!
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How to prepare for a job interview at PQShield
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Since you’re going for a full-time gig, showing genuine enthusiasm for the field can make all the difference. Share any personal projects, blogs, or communities you’re part of that relate to cybersecurity. This not only showcases your passion but also your commitment to staying engaged in this ever-evolving field.
