Research Associate – UNSW Defence Trailblazer project in Edinburgh
Research Associate – UNSW Defence Trailblazer project

Research Associate – UNSW Defence Trailblazer project in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
UNSW

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join a team to develop encryption software for Defence supply chains and enhance data security.
  • Company: UNSW Sydney, a leading university with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
  • Benefits: Gain research experience, publish papers, and attend conferences while working with industry experts.
  • Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment with opportunities for professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in cyber security and contribute to vital Defence projects.
  • Qualifications: PhD in computer science or related field, expertise in cryptography, and software development skills.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

The Research Associate will work with a team of UNSW Sydney experts and an industry partner on a Defence Trailblazer project titled “Resilience of Supply Chain Unstructured Data.” The project aims to develop software to encrypt and control the many different data file formats used in Defence supply chains, delivering an encryption software suite that protects sensitive information across the supply chain. The position involves developing research skills, contributing to scientific papers for international venues, participating in conferences and workshops, and engaging with industry partners. The role reports to Prof. Salil Kanhere and A/Prof. Sushmita Ruj.

Responsibilities

  • Contribute to research activities related to encryption, data security, and unstructured data in Defence supply chains.
  • Collaborate with UNSW researchers and industry partners; participate in writing of scientific papers, conferences, and workshops.
  • Develop and test software components, with a focus on security and data protection across multi-format data files.

Qualifications

  • PhD (or soon to be awarded) in computer science, especially in cyber security or a related field.
  • Expertise in cryptography and computer systems.
  • Experience in software development and low-level programming; good knowledge of C and C++ preferred.
  • Strong understanding of operating system concepts, file system drivers, and kernel architecture.
  • Proven ability to conduct independent research with limited supervision and a track record of publications and conference presentations.
  • Experience working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary team and strong interpersonal communication skills.

Pre-Employment Checks

  • National and International Criminal history checks
  • Entitlement to work and ID checks
  • Working With Children Checks
  • Completion of a Gender-Based Violence Prevention Declaration
  • Verification of relevant qualifications and professional memberships
  • Employment history and reference checks
  • Financial responsibility assessments
  • Medical checks and assessments

Compliance with the required pre-employment checks is a condition of employment at UNSW. To be considered, applicants must have Australian Working Rights or Australian Citizenship. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment.

How to Apply

Please click the apply now button and submit your CV, cover letter, and responses to the Skills and Experience. Address the listed Skills and Experience in your application. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Contact

Allyssar Hamoud – Talent Acquisition Associate
E:
Applications close: 11:55 pm (Sydney time) on Tuesday 19 April 2026.

UNSW is committed to equity and inclusion. We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, and those with caring responsibilities. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Research Associate – UNSW Defence Trailblazer project in Edinburgh employer: UNSW

UNSW Sydney is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of cyber security. As a Research Associate on the Defence Trailblazer project, you will have the opportunity to develop cutting-edge software while engaging with industry partners and contributing to impactful research publications. With a strong commitment to equity and inclusion, UNSW provides ample opportunities for professional growth and development, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
UNSW

Contact Detail:

UNSW Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Associate – UNSW Defence Trailblazer project in Edinburgh

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those linked to UNSW or defence projects. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a GitHub repository showcasing your software development projects, especially those related to encryption and data security. This gives you a chance to demonstrate your expertise beyond just your CV.

Tip Number 3

Get involved in relevant conferences and workshops. Not only will you learn a lot, but you’ll also meet potential collaborators and employers. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on the latest trends in cyber security.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Tailor your application to highlight your experience in cryptography and software development to stand out.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate – UNSW Defence Trailblazer project in Edinburgh

Research Skills
Cryptography
Data Security
Software Development
Low-Level Programming
C
C++
Operating System Concepts
File System Drivers
Kernel Architecture
Independent Research
Interpersonal Communication Skills
Collaboration
Scientific Writing

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in cyber security and software development. We want to see how your skills align with the responsibilities of the Research Associate role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the Defence Trailblazer project and how your background makes you a perfect fit. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear connection to our mission.

Address Skills and Experience: When responding to the Skills and Experience section, be specific! We want to know how your past experiences relate to the job. Use examples that demonstrate your expertise in cryptography and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application. Plus, it ensures you’re following the correct process and gives you the best chance of being considered for the role.

How to prepare for a job interview at UNSW

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of encryption, data security, and unstructured data. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in cyber security and be ready to discuss how they relate to Defence supply chains.

Showcase Your Research Skills

Prepare to talk about your previous research experiences, especially any publications or conference presentations. Highlight your ability to conduct independent research and how you've collaborated with others in interdisciplinary teams.

Demonstrate Technical Proficiency

Be ready to discuss your software development experience, particularly in C and C++. You might even want to prepare for some technical questions or coding challenges that could come up during the interview.

Engage with the Team Spirit

Since this role involves collaboration with UNSW researchers and industry partners, show your interpersonal skills. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team and communicated effectively with diverse groups.

Research Associate – UNSW Defence Trailblazer project in Edinburgh
UNSW
Location: Edinburgh

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