At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate AI's impact on cyber threats and design controlled experiments.
- Company: Join the Alan Turing Institute, a leader in AI security research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and family-friendly policies.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the future of AI and cybersecurity.
- Qualifications: Curiosity about adversarial thinking and experience in experimental design.
The predicted salary is between 45505 - 51465 £ per year.
The Offensive Security Unit (OSU) forms part of the Government’s wider Laboratory for AI Security Research initiative, which brings together academia, industry, and government to advance UK leadership in AI security research. Without truly understanding the future of cyber‑attacks we are limited in our ability to defend. OSU will be a dedicated team that will identify, design and assess new AI‑enabled offensive techniques. As an Offensive Security Researcher, you will investigate how modern AI changes what is possible for cyber adversaries. Working from realistic threat scenarios, you will design and evaluate controlled experiments that explore emerging AI‑enabled offensive techniques before they appear in the wild. Outputs may include experimental designs, prototype implementations, reproducible evaluations, technical reports, demonstrations, and briefings for government partners. All work will be conducted within appropriate legal, ethical and governance frameworks.
HOW YOU’LL MAKE AN IMPACT
- Identify high‑value research questions at the intersection of AI and offensive cyber.
- Translate realistic adversary behaviours into testable hypotheses and experimental designs.
- Co‑design and run rigorous evaluations of AI‑enabled offensive techniques, including where they work, fail, or introduce new risks.
- Develop prototypes and reproducible implementations with Offensive Security Engineers.
- Analyse AI‑altered attack surfaces, including how AI may support discovery, chaining, automation, or amplification of cyber techniques.
YOU’LL THRIVE IN THIS ROLE IF YOU
- Have strong instincts for adversarial thinking and are curious about how systems can be probed, stressed and exploited.
- Are energised by anticipating where offensive capability is heading, rather than only responding to what already exists.
- Enjoy turning ideas into well‑designed experiments and concrete evidence.
- Are comfortable working in ambiguous problem spaces where the right questions are not always obvious.
- Can move fluidly between real‑world scenarios, abstract reasoning and experimental validation.
- Are motivated by producing work that has real operational relevance and impact.
- Like collaborating across disciplines, particularly with engineers and domain experts.
- Communicate clearly with both technical and non‑technical audiences.
- Produce clear technical evidence through reports, demonstrations and briefings.
- Work closely with government and technical stakeholders to ensure research remains grounded, relevant and actionable.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
This full‑time post is offered on a two‑year fixed‑term basis. The annual salary is £45,505‑£51,465 plus excellent benefits, including flexible working, family friendly policies. Eligibility for Developed Vetting (DV) clearance is a requirement for this role. Eligibility criteria and further information on the process can be found on the UK Government security vetting website. Applicants should check if they are eligible for DV clearance before applying to this role.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
The Alan Turing Institute is committed to creating an environment where diversity is valued and everyone is treated fairly. We value diversity of background, experience and perspective, and are proud to be an inclusive employer. We warmly encourage applications from all backgrounds, particularly from groups currently under‑represented in our sector. If you feel passionate about this role but don’t meet every single requirement, please apply – we recognise that great candidates may bring strengths beyond the criteria listed.
Offensive Security Researcher employer: The Alan Turing Institute
The Alan Turing Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of AI security research within a collaborative environment that bridges academia, industry, and government. With a strong commitment to employee growth, flexible working arrangements, and a focus on diversity and inclusion, you will thrive in a culture that values innovative thinking and impactful contributions. Join us in shaping the future of cyber defence while enjoying excellent benefits and the chance to make a real difference in the field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Offensive Security Researcher
✨Get Involved in the Cybersecurity Community
Diving into the cybersecurity community is key for landing that full-time gig. Join forums like Reddit's r/cybersecurity or attend local meetups to connect with industry veterans and other job seekers. Networking is everything in this field—don’t just be a passive lurker!
✨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 The Alan Turing Institute, love seeing candidates who actively engage in these challenges.
✨Tailor Your Online Presence
Make sure your LinkedIn and any professional profiles reflect your cybersecurity expertise. Share your projects, whether they’re personal or from a previous role, to catch the eye of hiring managers. This is how they’ll find your passion and commitment to the field!
✨Apply Directly Through The Alan Turing Institute
Don’t forget to head straight to our website and check out any openings for cybersecurity roles at The Alan Turing Institute. 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 Offensive Security Researcher
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!
Tailor your portfolio for the role:Even for a full-time role, a portfolio can set you apart. If you've worked on any cybersecurity projects—be it CTF challenges, security assessments, or research papers—include these in your application. This demonstrates not just your skills, but also your hands-on experience!
Use real-world examples:When writing your cover letter, don’t just stick to your qualifications. Share real-world examples of how you’ve tackled security issues or vulnerabilities. This gives the hiring team at The Alan Turing Institute insight into your practical problem-solving abilities and makes your application memorable.
Demonstrate your passion for cybersecurity:Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so show us that you’re always learning! Mention any recent courses, webinars, or industry events you’ve attended. This not only exhibits your enthusiasm but also signals to The Alan Turing Institute that you’re committed to staying ahead in the game.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Alan Turing Institute
✨Sharpen Your Technical Skills
For a role in cybersecurity, it’s essential to be up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve applied these skills, as hands-on experience can really set us apart in interviews.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect the interviewers at The Alan Turing Institute to throw in some hypothetical situations to see how you’d handle them. Think about common security breaches or incidents and be prepared to explain how you would respond. This not only shows your problem-solving skills but also your understanding of real-world cybersecurity challenges.
✨Highlight Your Certifications
Certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can give you a significant edge in a full-time role in cybersecurity. Make sure to mention these during your interview and be prepared to discuss what you learned through those certifications and how they relate to the position at The Alan Turing Institute.
✨Show Your Passion for Cybersecurity
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.
