Doctoral Researcher in LLM Privacy and Security University of Turku in Finland

The University of Turku’s Department of Computing at the Faculty of Technology is offering a full-time Doctoral Researcher position focused on privacy and security in Large Language Models (LLMs). This position is part of a high-impact European defense research project, providing an opportunity to conduct advanced research on LLM security in adversarial environments. The successful candidate will join an elite, interdisciplinary team, collaborating with leading academic experts and industrial security architects across Europe.

Research topics include privacy preservation (using Federated Learning, Differential Privacy, Homomorphic Encryption), security hardening (defense against adversarial threats such as Prompt Injection and backdoor attacks), and vulnerability attack & defense (automated red-blue teaming, patching/filtering technologies). Responsibilities involve designing and implementing secure LLM protocols and algorithms, collaborating with European universities and industrial partners, participating in project implementation and reporting, supervising MSc and Bachelor students, assisting in teaching, and engaging in training opportunities such as proposal writing and scientific publishing.

Applicants must have an MSc degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, with a strong foundation in AI and related algorithms. Prior experience or strong interest in cybersecurity or adversarial machine learning is preferred. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, proficiency in English, and programming skills (Python, C++, Rust) with experience in deep learning frameworks are required. Eligibility criteria are defined in the University of Turku Rules of Procedure. Candidates must have the right to pursue a doctoral degree at University of Turku and demonstrate the ability to undertake postgraduate studies. In exceptional cases, candidates who have nearly completed a master's degree may be considered as Research Assistants.

The position is fully funded, with a monthly salary for doctoral/project researchers averaging 2500–2700 euros, and 2400 euros for Research Assistants. The contract is fixed-term, ending 30 June 2029, with a six-month trial period. The University of Turku offers a vibrant, international research community, opportunities to publish in top-tier cybersecurity journals and conferences, collaboration with outstanding European partners, and training courses for academic researchers. Flexible working hours and well-being services are provided to support work-life balance.

To apply, submit your application via the online recruitment system by 30 June 2026. Required documents include a motivation letter, CV, list of publications, copies of Bachelor and MSc degree certificates (with translation), and other relevant documents such as a research plan, awards, and valid English proficiency certificate (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL). For further information, contact Associate Professor Kaitai Liang ([email protected]) or HR Specialist Nina Reini ([email protected]). The position will be filled if the project is implemented. The University of Turku reserves the right to leave the position open or extend the application period for justified reasons.

The Department of Computing educates professionals for the modern digitalised society, with central themes including Digitalisation, Machine Learning, Autonomous and Intelligent Systems, Cybersecurity, and Health Technology. The Faculty of Technology is the newest faculty at the University of Turku, established in 2021, and is home to more than 2,000 graduate and postgraduate students and around 400 employees. The University of Turku is an inspiring and international academic community of 25,000 students and staff, committed to multidisciplinary research, education, and collaboration for a sustainable future.