Research Associate for IT Product Security in Heilbronn

Fraunhofer SIT is offering several open positions for research associates in applied cybersecurity research at its new location in Heilbronn. We are looking for qualified candidates to work in the areas of software security and supply chain security.

Heilbronn is one of the most dynamically developing locations in Germany in terms of innovation, technology development, and science. The city’s education campus hosts various institutions from university and non-university research and development, collaborating in a unique environment to develop data-driven technologies and smart applications for the future. The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft has established eight research and innovation centers in Heilbronn, including one focused on cybersecurity. This center is a new location of the Fraunhofer Institute for Secure Information Technology (Fraunhofer SIT), headquartered in Darmstadt.

Cybersecurity is key to the digitalization of businesses, society, and government. Without adequate cybersecurity, digital transformation cannot succeed. The security of IT products and supply chains plays a crucial role in this effort.

Fraunhofer SIT is one of the world’s leading research institutions for cybersecurity and privacy protection. The institute is a driving force in the international IT security landscape and the largest contributor to the National Research Center for Applied Cybersecurity (ATHENE), the largest cybersecurity research center of its kind in Europe and a vital part of Germany’s cybersecurity strategy. Fraunhofer SIT and ATHENE focus on key security challenges and conduct applied research and development at the highest international level. Researchers at the new Heilbronn site will closely collaborate with ATHENE experts in software security.

This job posting is aimed at candidates with or without professional experience who are looking to advance their careers in a field with major challenges and excellent future prospects. It offers the opportunity to qualify in a highly specialized environment under outstanding conditions.

Be part of change

• Conduct research and development projects in IT product and supply chain security
• Collaborate closely with leading companies and public institutions in the region
• Work with internationally renowned scientists
• Contribute to the transfer of research and development results into real-world applications
• Publish research findings and present at international conferences
• Support the acquisition and execution of national and international research projects

What you contribute

• PhD or Master’s degree in computer science or a related field
• Extensive knowledge, strong interest, and ideally hands‑on experience in cybersecurity or data privacy
• Willingness to take on new challenges, strong analytical thinking, and solution‑oriented mindset
• Team player with excellent collaboration skills

What we offer

• A high-tech environment with excellent opportunities for professional qualification, including the possibility of pursuing a PhD in cybersecurity
• The chance to work at a renowned, internationally leading cybersecurity institute
• A friendly, open, and collegial work environment with a dynamic and creative atmosphere
• A family‑friendly work culture with flexible working conditions (various working time models, remote and flexible work options, subsidies for public transport, support for work‑life balance, etc.)
• Company pension scheme, asset‑building benefits, and salary conversion options
• The position is initially limited to two years, with the prospect of long‑term collaboration.

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 utilization 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

Requisition Number: 78605 Application Deadline: