Applied Cryptography Researcher - Innovation R&D

As an Applied Cryptography Researcher at IOG, you will be responsible for extracting cryptographic requirements from various product and engineering teams. You'll lead and contribute to innovative cryptographic research that meets these requirements, support the prototyping of cryptographic systems, and translate research findings into engineering specifications. Additionally, you will thoroughly review cryptographic protocols and design proposals, write and submit research papers to prestigious journals, participate in research meetings, and collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team of experts.

To be considered for the Applied Cryptography Researcher role at IOG, you should possess a PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or Applied Mathematics. A minimum of 4-5 years of development experience in applied cryptography is essential, along with expert knowledge of cryptographic protocols, zero-knowledge protocols like PlonK, elliptic curve cryptography, and post-quantum security techniques. Additionally, familiarity with blockchain cryptography and strong practical experience in implementing cryptographic primitives will significantly enhance your candidacy.

The work culture at IOG is vibrant, diverse, and forward-thinking. We empower our Applied Cryptography Researchers to question the status quo and innovate in their fields. Team members are encouraged to engage in thoughtful debates, share ideas, and collaborate in an environment that values continuous learning and development. We support our employees' growth with programs, competitive PTO, and remote work opportunities, allowing for a flexible and balanced work-life integration.

IOG is committed to fostering the professional growth of our Applied Cryptography Researchers. You will benefit from learning and development opportunities, and you'll be given the resources necessary for your success, such as a laptop reimbursement and a new starter package for hardware essentials. Additionally, you will collaborate with a dynamic team including cryptography researchers and product managers, providing an environment ripe for innovation and continuous improvement.

As an Applied Cryptography Researcher at IOG, you will be involved in exciting projects that challenge the limits of current technology. This includes working on post-quantum prototypes, leading research for novel cryptographic systems, and engaging in the design and optimization of cryptographic protocols. Your work will not only push the boundaries of cryptographic knowledge but also contribute to real-world applications in governance, decentralized finance, and identity management, making significant impacts on blockchain technology.

In your answer, detail your education and any relevant experience you have. Mention specific cryptographic techniques or protocols you have worked with, and provide examples of projects where you implemented these concepts. Highlight your problem-solving skills and how you adapt cryptographic principles to real-world applications.

Discuss the cryptographic protocols that you have implemented or researched extensively. Frame your answer to include both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, such as ZK protocols, elliptic curve cryptography, and any proprietary systems you've worked on. It's also beneficial to mention your understanding of their applications and limitations.

Elaborate on your thought process when making trade-offs between security and performance. Provide examples of scenarios where you've had to optimize a cryptographic system, ensuring you explain the decision-making process and outcomes. Demonstrating awareness of the real-world impacts of these decisions is crucial.

Share a detailed account of a challenging project, highlighting the objectives, your specific role, and the obstacles you faced. Explain how you overcame these challenges and what you learned from the experience, focusing on both the technical and collaborative aspects.

In your response, outline the methodologies you prefer for testing cryptographic protocols, such as formal verification, simulation, or model checking. Discuss your experience in validating protocols and ensuring security through rigorous testing and peer reviews.

Discuss the resources you use to keep current with cryptography trends, such as attending conferences, participating in workshops, reading academic journals, or engaging with online forums. Mentioning specific sources demonstrates your commitment to staying informed and engaged in the field.

Demonstrating your ability to convey complex concepts effectively is key. Choose a principle like encryption or hashing and simplify it using relatable analogies. This shows your communication skills and helps the interviewer gauge your understanding of the subject matter.

Detail your experience with zero-knowledge proofs, citing projects or research where you've applied them. Discuss the significance of ZK proofs in enhancing privacy and security in protocols. Highlight any challenges you’ve faced in implementing or optimizing these proofs.

Mention the programming languages and tools you are proficient with, emphasizing those commonly utilized in cryptographic work like Python, C++, or specialized libraries. Providing context on how you’ve effectively used these tools in past projects reinforces your expertise.

Explain your approach to peer reviews, emphasizing the importance of constructive feedback and iteration. Discuss how you handle criticism, the steps you take to apply feedback, and how this process enhances the quality of your work and aids in professional development.