PhD Position in Software Lifecycle Security and Software Patching at Umeå University

Umeå University in Sweden is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD position in Computing Science with a focus on Software Lifecycle Security and software patching. The position is part of the Software Engineering and Security (SES) group, led by Professor Alexandre Bartel, and is funded by Cybercampus and Umeå University, with Region Västerbotten and KTH as partners. The research will focus on improving the software patching process, developing new methodologies to enhance software security, and mitigating vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malicious actors. The project may also consider constraints relevant to sensitive environments, such as medical devices. Key research areas include software security, code analysis, static analysis, reverse engineering, defense mechanisms, vulnerability detection, exploit mitigation, malware, computer security, fuzzing, and software testing. The position offers excellent career development support, networking opportunities, and good employment conditions within a diverse and inclusive department. The PhD student will collaborate closely with Prof. Alexandre Bartel (Umeå University), Associate Professor Musard Balliu and Dr. Emre Süren (KTH), and Jonas Andersson (Region Västerbotten). Applicants must have a second-cycle degree or equivalent (at least 240 ECTS credits, with at least 60 at second-cycle level), or equivalent foreign qualifications. At least 90 higher education credits in computer science or closely related subjects are required. Candidates should have a strong interest in computer security, excellent programming skills (e.g., C, Java, Python), and a deep understanding of computer systems (assembly, compilers). Important personal qualities include teamwork, communication, discipline, curiosity, and creativity. The application must be written in English or Swedish, and all supporting documents must be translated if not originally in these languages. The position is fully funded with a monthly salary according to the university's doctoral student salary ladder. The main focus is on PhD studies (at least 80% of the time), with the possibility of up to 20% departmental service (such as teaching), which may extend the position to a maximum of five years. The expected start date is April 20, 2026, or as otherwise agreed. Applications must be submitted electronically via the Umeå University e-recruitment system by March 16, 2026. For more information, contact Prof. Alexandre Bartel at [email protected].