Research Associate for Secure Software Development in Heilbronn

The Fraunhofer Institute for Secure Information Technology SIT is expanding its new location in Heilbronn and is looking for dedicated research assistants. At the Heilbronn Education Campus, university and non‑university research institutions are working together in a unique collaboration on data‑driven technologies and smart applications. With the new research center for cybersecurity, Heilbronn is becoming a hotspot for future technologies.

The Secure Software Engineering (SSE) department

The position is located in the SSE research department of Fraunhofer SIT at the Heilbronn site. The research and development work in SSE is carried out in close cooperation between the two institute locations in Darmstadt and Heilbronn. As a department, we deal with all facets of software and system security throughout the entire life cycle of software‑driven systems. We support industry and public authorities in risk modeling, the creation and testing of secure software/system architectures, the performance of penetration tests and code reviews, and all questions relating to secure operation.

In our research, we develop novel methods of static and dynamic code analysis for various platforms, from mobile devices and web servers to Windows and Linux programs and embedded systems. In addition to classic program analysis techniques, we also use AI approaches. We publish the results of our research at the most renowned international conferences and journals.

Be part of change

• Collaboration in applied research projects in the field of software security
• Development and research of automated methods for detecting, analyzing, and verifying vulnerabilities
• Combination of software security and AI methods, e.g., for automated code analysis and attack detection
• Development and testing of prototypes to transfer scientific results into practice
• Collaboration with renowned industry partners, authorities, and research institutions
• Publication of your results and presentation at international conferences
• Support in the acquisition and implementation of national and international research projects

What you contribute

• Completed master’s degree or PhD in computer science, IT security, or a related field
• In‑depth knowledge of software development (e.g., Java, C/C++, Python) and an interest in software security and AI
• Ideally, experience in areas such as static and dynamic program analysis, software engineering, or compiler construction
• Enjoyment of analytical thinking, research, and practical application
• Ability to work in a team and motivation to jointly develop new approaches to the security of digital systems

What we offer

• Work at a leading international institute in the field of cybersecurity with close ties to ATHENE, Europe's largest research centre for applied cybersecurity research.
• Excellent opportunities for academic qualification, including doctoral studies on current issues in software security and AI.
• Modern infrastructure on the Heilbronn education campus with a unique research and innovation environment.
• An open, collegial, and dynamic working environment with plenty of creative freedom
• A family‑friendly culture with flexible working time models, mobile working, subsidies for local transport tickets, and extensive support services to help you achieve a good work‑life balance
• Attractive social benefits such as a company pension plan and capital‑forming benefits
• A position initially limited to two years, with the option of longer‑term cooperation

The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part‑time basis. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilisation of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

Fraunhofer Institute for Secure Information Technology SIT