Research Associate (m/f/d) at the Institute of Software Security

Overview

Research Associate (m/f/d) at the Institute of Software Security

The Institute of Software Security at Hamburg University of Technology is hiring a graduate research associate to work in the DFG-funded project "DevSSATD: Developer-centered Management of Self-Admitted Technical Debt for Security." The project combines human-centered research with code analysis and Mining Software Repositories (MSR) techniques, with a central focus on the security implications of technical debt in software-intensive systems and the development of usable technologies to enable its early identification, assessment, and remediation. Special attention will be given to security debt arising from generative AI-augmented software systems. The project foresees close collaboration with industrial partners to ensure practical relevance of the research outcomes. The position is full-time and fixed term until . Location: Hamburg.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth security analysis of software artifacts (e.g., source code and code comments)
• Carry out human-centered studies and controlled experiments with software developers
• Develop usable AI-based solutions that address security debt
• Compile and present results at international conferences and publish in academic journals

Qualifications

Requirements

• Completed scientific university studies (master's degree or equivalent), in particular in Software Engineering or Information Systems

Desired knowledge and personal skills

• Very good English language skills (C1)
• Expertise in software security (e.g., run and interpret static code analysis outputs)
• Proficiency in empirical research methods and data analysis (e.g., MSR, controlled experiments, and surveys)
• Proven knowledge and experience in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

Our offer

• Flexible and family-friendly working conditions
• Possibility of mobile working
• 30 days vacation per year
• Internal offers for health promotion and special conditions in gyms
• Results from the role may be used for a dissertation

Equality and notice

We value diversity; therefore all applications are welcome, regardless of gender, gender identity, ethnic origin, nationality, age, religion and belief, disability, sexual orientation and identity or social background.