Grant-Funded Researcher (A/B) in Machine Learning, Software Security, Fuzzing

(Level A) $89,610 to $96,007 or (Level B) $100,933 to $119,391 per annum plus an employer contribution of up to 17% superannuation may apply.

Two, 1.5 year fixed-term positions are available to work on a project for developing Fuzzing Techniques for Discovering Vulnerabilities in Software Binaries (with possibility of extension to 3 years).

This is an outstanding opportunity to advance your career in cyber security, software engineering, machine learning whilst exploring the area of system emulation for large scale, automated, dynamic analysis of software with three world-class institutions.

This is an opportunity for a high-achieving postdoctoral researcher to join a world-leading research group in Computer Security and Machine Learning. The School of Computer Science is ranked 48th in the world, and The University of Adelaide ranked in the top 1% of Universities worldwide. Notably, Adelaide is ranked the third most liveable city in the world and the most liveable city in Australia in 2021.

As a Grant-Funded Researcher, you will work on a research program to address the problems in software-based full system emulation for large scale automated dynamic analysis of software. The project aims to improve vulnerability detection in arbitrary binary targets where hardware-assisted instrumentation is unavailable/infeasible (e.g., embedded systems). You will be involved in the development of theory, techniques (such as fuzzing), tools for discovering bugs and vulnerabilities in software binaries. You will also be working with a team of researchers from the University of Adelaide's School of Computer Science and the Australian Institute of Machine Learning, University of New South Wales, Deakin University, CSIRO's Data61 and Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTG).

To be successful at Level A, you will need:

• PhD (or soon to be awarded) in Computer Science or Software Engineering a similar discipline, or equivalent industry experience in software development, applied machine learning, computer security, or computer architecture.
• Experience and demonstrable expert knowledge in one or more or the following areas: Fuzzing; Software vulnerability discovery and software testing; Machine learning in general; Machine learning domain expertise working with binaries, text, structured data, sequential data or time series data and discrete data; Software and systems security; Embedded systems and control systems firmware; Binary analysis; Optimisation techniques; Linux kernel(s) and operating systems; Computer architecture; Just in time (JIT) compilation or knowledge in compilers and compiler optimisations.
• Programming experience and expertise in Rust/C/C++/Python.

In addition to the above to be successful at Level B, you will also need:

• A strong work ethic and the ability to work well independently, and as a member of a broader team, including with industrial partners.
• A track record of generating new ideas and quality research/software products & tools as evidenced by, for example patents or publications in one or more of top-tier software engineering, computer security, machine learning, artificial intelligence conferences and/or journals commensurate with experience and opportunity.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and development with limited supervision.

Enjoy an outstanding career environment

The University of Adelaide is a uniquely rewarding workplace. The size, breadth and quality of our education and research programs - including significant industry, government and community collaborations - offers you vast scope and opportunity for a long, fulfilling career.

It also enables us to attract high-calibre people in all facets of our operations, ensuring you will be surrounded by talented colleagues, many world-leading. Our work's cutting-edge nature - not just in your own area, but across virtually the full spectrum of human endeavour - provides a constant source of inspiration.

Our culture is one that welcomes all and embraces diversity consistent with our Staff Values and Behaviour Framework and our Values of integrity, respect, collegiality, excellence and discovery. We firmly believe that our people are our most valuable asset, so we work to grow and diversify the skills, knowledge and capability of all our staff.

We embrace flexibility as a key principle to allow our people to manage the changing demands of work, personal and family life. Flexible working arrangements are on offer for all roles at the University.

In addition, we offer a wide range of attractive staff benefits. These include: salary packaging; flexible work arrangements; high-quality professional development programs and activities; and an on-campus health clinic, gym and other fitness facilities.

Your faculty's broader role

The Faculty of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences is a thriving centre of learning, teaching and research in a vast range of engineering disciplines, computer science - including machine learning, high-level mathematics and architecture, planning and landscape architecture. Many of its academic staff are world leaders in their fields and graduates are highly regarded by employers.

If you have the talent, we'll give you the opportunity. Together, let's make history.

Click on the 'Apply Now' button to be taken through to the online application form. Please ensure you submit a cover letter, resume, and upload a document that includes your responses to all of the selection criteria for the position as contained in the position description or selection criteria document.

Applications close 11:55pm, 10 October 2021.

The University of Adelaide is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who meet the requirements of this position are strongly encouraged to apply.

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