Interdisciplinary Transformation University (IT:U) in Linz, Austria, is offering a full-time PhD position in Secure and Resilient Infrastructures within its Doctoral School and the PhD-Program COMPUTATIONAL X. The position is for up to 4 years, starting in March 2026, and is supervised by Professor Johanna Ullrich. IT:U is Austria’s first public interdisciplinary university focused on digital transformation for societal, economic, and environmental benefit.

The research group investigates the status quo of critical infrastructures—especially the Internet and the power grid—using Internet measurements and Open Source Intelligence. The group aims to understand mutual dependencies between infrastructures and to enhance their security, privacy, and resilience. The PhD student will work collaboratively on relevant but independent research topics, tailored to their skills and interests.

IT:U provides access to a platform for active Internet measurements, supporting large-scale experiments. Students benefit from strong networking opportunities with leading researchers and industry partners, both nationally and internationally. Public engagement is encouraged, with opportunities for outreach, media appearances, and participation in debates to enhance communication skills and societal impact.

Responsibilities include conducting independent and group research, writing academic publications, attending conferences, collaborating across disciplines, assisting in academic teaching (up to 2 weekly credit hours), helping with third-party funding applications, and adhering to academic and ethical standards.

Applicants should be highly motivated and interested in secure and resilient infrastructures. A master’s degree or equivalent in computer science, electrical engineering, mathematics, physics, or a related field is required. Candidates must have solid programming and data analysis skills, and ideally knowledge in one or more of the following: computer networks, information security, mathematical modeling, electromagnetism and power engineering, theoretical computer science, or economic modeling. Independent thinking and fluency in English (CEFR C1 or equivalent) are essential.

The PhD program is structured over four years, beginning with group work, research lab modules, and Project Integrated Courses (PICS), culminating in a PhD Proposal Presentation. The following years focus on thesis development, interdisciplinary seminars, and project assistant work, ending with thesis submission and defense.

IT:U offers innovative working conditions in an international, interdisciplinary environment, an office kitchen with complimentary supplies, and the Austrian KlimaTicket Ö for unlimited public transportation. The gross monthly salary starts at EUR 3,714.80 (full-time, 40h).

Applications are open until January 31st, 2026. To apply, fill out the online form at https://apply.it-u.at/ and upload your CV, diplomas, transcripts, motivational letter, and up to three contacts for recommendations. For questions or expressions of interest, contact Professor Johanna Ullrich at [email protected] with your CV before applying. IT:U values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds.