Software Engineer - zkVM

As a Software Engineer - zkVM at Nexus, your key responsibilities will include working closely with pioneering researchers to design and optimize zk-proof systems and protocols. You'll conduct research on new zk-proof techniques and maintain as well as enhance libraries for proof generation, verification, and integration. This role requires a strong collaborative ethos, as you'll be in constant discussion with engineering and research teams.

To qualify for the Software Engineer - zkVM position at Nexus, you should have experience with proof assistants such as Coq, Lean, Isabelle, or F*. Familiarity with formal methods in distributed systems or cryptographic protocols is essential. Additionally, a strong curiosity for correctness and efficient computation, combined with the ability to work alongside both research and engineering teams, will make you an ideal candidate.

The Software Engineer - zkVM role at Nexus is pivotal in advancing our mission to create a Verifiable Internet. By focusing on the development of zk-proof systems and contributing to the Nexus zkVM, you will play an integral part in enhancing the security and performance of our Layer 1 blockchain technology. Your contributions will directly impact the robustness of verifiable computation, making it vital for our overarching goals.

Employees at Nexus enjoy a competitive salary along with generous equity compensation, which reflects our commitment to recognizing the value brought by our team. Additionally, we provide comprehensive health insurance for employees and their dependents, daily meals at our San Francisco headquarters, and company-sponsored travel for events and conferences, all fostering a fulfilling work environment.

As a Software Engineer - zkVM at Nexus, you can expect to work on a variety of exciting projects that include designing and implementing zk-proof protocols and optimizing existing libraries for zk-proof systems. You'll collaborate with a team of talented researchers, giving you exposure to the latest developments in zero-knowledge proofs and contributing to projects that aim to redefine how we think about privacy and security in computing.

When discussing zero-knowledge proofs in your interview, highlight that they are cryptographic methods through which one party can prove to another that they know a value without revealing the value itself. Use an analogy or real-world application to simplify the concept, which can help demonstrate your understanding.

It's key to discuss any projects or contributions you've made using Rust, especially those relating to zkVM. Share specific examples and how your familiarity with Rust complements your understanding of performance and security in software development.

In your response, elaborate on your design process, emphasizing your focus on correctness, mathematical guarantees, and collaboration with researchers. Mention any frameworks or methodologies you enjoy using, and how you ensure that your designs are robust and efficient.

Share a specific example where you faced a difficult problem in software engineering. Detail your problem-solving process, the steps you took to address the challenge, and what you learned from the experience. This showcases your resilience and analytical thinking.

Discuss any experience you have with formal methods like Coq or Lean. Explain how these methods have shaped your approach to software development, including their role in verifying the correctness of systems you have worked on.

Mention the resources you rely on for staying informed, such as academic papers, conferences, or online courses. Highlight your proactive approach to learning and how this has helped you incorporate new techniques into your work.

Share an experience that demonstrates your ability to work collaboratively within research teams. Emphasize the importance of communication and how diverse insights contribute to innovative breakthroughs in technology.

Discuss techniques you utilize for optimizing performance while ensuring the utmost security, including benchmarking or testing methodologies. This question is an opportunity to showcase your technical rigor and commitment to quality.

Elaborate on a specific open-source project, your role in it, and the impact of your contributions. This demonstrates your passion for technology and collaboration, especially within the software engineering community.

Share your enthusiasm for zk-proof technology and its potential future applications. Discuss areas you believe are ripe for innovation and how you see your work at Nexus contributing to this exciting field further.