Security and Privacy Researcher

National Physical Laboratory (NPL); Metropolitan Borough of Solihull; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) seeks a passionate individual for a role involving research and development in telecom systems. Candidates should have strong capabilities in hardware and software prototyping, alongside a robust understanding of technical communication and Linux environments. This position offers flexible working options within a supportive environment that values diversity and equality.

The ideal applicant will engage in cutting-edge research in areas such as cybersecurity and AI within telecom contexts, contributing to the safety and advancement of the UK's telecommunications network.

Qualifications

• Experience investigating complex technical problems.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Experience in developing software or hardware prototypes.
• Clear technical communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop software/hardware prototypes for telecom systems.
• Investigate and resolve complex technical challenges.

Skills

Research capability

Technical communication

Linux environments

Software/hardware prototyping

Tools

IDA Pro

Ghidra

Job description

About the Role

This Role Speaks to You If... You’ve always been curious about how things work—especially when it comes to telecoms systems like 5G, fibre broadband. Maybe you know IP/TCP/HTTP but here you will work with SCTP/ NGAP / 5G SBI in carrier grade implementations that no one else has this level of access to!

Successful Applicants must be able to commute to the UKTL offices in Solihull, Birmingham at least twice a week. We strive to offer a great work‑life balance – if you are looking for full time, part time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where possible. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in.

About You

• Strong research capability, with experience investigating complex technical problems
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Experience developing software or hardware prototypes, turning concepts into working solutions
• Clear technical communication, including writing reports to a professional or publication standard
• Confidence working with Linux environments and quickly adopting new programming languages
• An understanding of development lifecycles and their impact on securityThe ability to navigate and apply academic literature and publicly available sources

What you’ll bring: You’ll ideally demonstrate experience or strong interest in one or more of the following research areas:

• Cybersecurity research within telecoms systems
• RF and Software Defined Radio (SDR)
• Artificial intelligence / Machine learning applied to networks or security
• Formal modelling and verification of protocols or systems
• Cryptography
• Hardware or software prototyping
• SIM / JavaCard technologies
• Non‑terrestrial networks

Bonus Points

Bonus points if you have experience with reverse engineering tools such as IDA Pro or Ghidra. Having curiosity and a strong research mindset is key.

Security Clearance

To work in this role, you will need to hold an SC clearance with no restrictions. You are welcome to apply without already holding SC clearance; however, you will not be able to start in post until the clearance has been successfully granted.

Application Process

Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert. Therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.

About Us

• UKTL is building leading edge Telecoms testing facilities to keep our telecommunications networks safe, accelerate the roll‑out of new technologies, and grow our world leading telecoms sector to maintain resiliency and security.
• As a trusted and independent national capability, UKTL interacts with standards bodies, Academia, and Government Departments as well as Communications Service Providers and equipment vendors.
• The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world‑leading centre of excellence that provides cutting‑edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.

Diversity & Inclusion

We are strongly committed to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities. We remember our values and shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.