Postdoc position in computer science, with focus on distributed protocols, concurrency, and blockchain

Cryptology and Data Security Group, University of Bern

A postdoc position is available in the Cryptology and Data Security research group at the Institute of Computer Science, University of Bern, led by Christian Cachin.

Our research addresses all aspects of security in distributed systems, especially cryptographic protocols, consistency, consensus, and cloud-computing security. We are particularly interested in blockchains, distributed ledger technology, cryptocurrencies, and their security and economics. Please explore crypto.unibe.ch to learn more about our research topics. We are part of IC3: The Initiative for Cryptocurrencies and Contracts.

This position concerns smart contracts running on blockchains with a cryptocurrency, blockchain consensus protocols, transactions, and concurrent execution of programs. The candidate is expected to develop novel methods and protocols for scaling blockchains.

Candidates should have a strong background in computer science. They should like conceptual, rigorous thinking for working theoretically, or be interested in building innovative systems for working practically. Demonstrated expertise in concurrent systems, distributed computing, security, or blockchain technology is a plus. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in computer science (or obtain it before the position starts) and ideally have contributed to the relevant research areas.

This position is available starting 1 March 2026 for a two-year period with possible extension. The position comes with a competitive salary and is governed by the employment rules and the agreement for postdoctoral researchers at the University of Bern. The University of Bern conducts excellent research and lives up its vision that “Knowledge generates value”. The city of Bern lies in the center of Switzerland, it offers a high quality of life and provides rich cultural and outdoor activities.

If you are interested, please apply by sending email with one single PDF file and subject line set to Application for Postdoc addressed directly to Prof. Christian Cachin at crypto.inf (at) unibe.ch. Applications received before November 15th will receive full consideration, and the selection process runs until suitable candidates have been found.

Your application should include:

  • Cover letter, explaining your research interests and motivation.
  • Curriculum vitae.
  • List of publications, software repositories, and further contributions.
  • Contact information for two references.

Since we receive many applications, we encourage you to include material that demonstrates your interests and strengths and sets you apart from others.

For more information, please contact Christian Cachin (https://crypto.unibe.ch/cc/).

October 2025

 

Ph.D. positions in computer science, with focus on distributed protocols, concurrency, and blockchain

Cryptology and Data Security Group, University of Bern

Multiple Ph.D. positions are available in the Cryptology and Data Security research group at the Institute of Computer Science, University of Bern, led by Christian Cachin.

Our research addresses all aspects of security in distributed systems, especially cryptographic protocols, consistency, consensus, and cloud-computing security. We are particularly interested in blockchains, distributed ledger technology, cryptocurrencies, and their security and economics. Please explore crypto.unibe.ch to learn more about our research topics. We are part of IC3: The Initiative for Cryptocurrencies and Contracts.

These positions concern smart contracts running on blockchains with a cryptocurrency, blockchain consensus protocols, transactions, and concurrent execution of programs. Candidates are expected to investigate novel methods and protocols for scaling blockchains.

Candidates should have a strong background in computer science. They should like conceptual, rigorous thinking for working theoretically, or be interested in building innovative systems for working practically. Demonstrated expertise in concurrent systems, distributed computing, security, or blockchain technology is a plus. Applicants must hold a master degree in computer science or a closely related research field and ideally have already gained experience in the relevant research areas.

The positions are available starting 1 March 2026 and run for up to four years. The positions come with a competitive salary and are governed by the rules for doctoral studies and the doctoral agreement at the University of Bern. The University of Bern conducts excellent research and lives up its vision that “Knowledge generates value”. The city of Bern lies in the center of Switzerland, it offers a high quality of life and provides rich cultural and outdoor activities.

If you are interested, please apply by sending email with one single PDF file and subject line set to Application for Ph.D. addressed directly to Prof. Christian Cachin at crypto.inf (at) unibe.ch. Applications received before November 15th will receive full consideration, and the selection process runs until suitable candidates have been found.

Your application should include:

  • Cover letter, explaining your motivation.
  • Curriculum vitae.
  • Transcript of studies.
  • Contact information for two references.

Since we receive many applications, we encourage you to include material that demonstrates your interests and strengths and sets you apart from others.

For more information, please contact Christian Cachin (https://crypto.unibe.ch/cc/).

October 2025

 

B.Sc. and M.Sc. thesis projects

Topics of student projects for students at the University of Bern are listed here.

 

Further information

Due to the volume of unsolicited applications that we receive, we may not be able to respond personally to everyone and would like to apologize for that. Please note also that we do not offer short-term or internship positions.