Senior Rust Developer - Protocol Researcher (External)

Medium; Greater London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A blockchain technology firm in Greater London is seeking a Systems Engineer to research and innovate in blockchain systems, design protocols, and develop distributed systems using Rust. The ideal candidate has over 3 years of experience in systems programming and a strong background in blockchain technology to drive cryptographic innovations. This role offers competitive compensation and is pivotal for enhancing blockchain security in a thriving ecosystem.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in systems programming using Rust, Go, or C++.
• Strong background in distributed systems and blockchain technology.
• Deep understanding of cryptographic primitives and their implementations.

Responsibilities

• Research initiatives in blockchain systems, particularly in areas such as ZK-rollups.
• Design and implement blockchain protocols and experimental features using Rust.
• Architect and develop robust distributed systems with a focus on scalability and security.

Skills

Rust programming

Go programming

C++ programming

Distributed systems

Blockchain technology

Cryptographic primitives

Consensus protocols

P2P networking

Blockchain security

Job description

Our client is the first Bitcoin security-equivalent Layer2 solution based on BitVM approach. Their core objective is to address the trade-off between security and Turing completeness in Bitcoin Layer2s through cryptographic innovations and blockchain protocol engineering. This is intended to ultimately foster a prosperous Bitcoin ecosystem.

Operating in the blockchain and cryptocurrency space, providing secure infrastructure for the creation and management of decentralized digital assets. They specialize in developing solutions for transactions and asset management that prioritize privacy and security. By integrating advanced cryptographic protocols, the platform allows users to issue, transfer, and track digital assets, such as tokens or digital currencies, with a focus on scalability and efficiency. Additionally, they offer services that enable users to automate complex financial operations and manage assets across multiple blockchains seamlessly.

Key Responsibilities

• Research & Innovation: Research initiatives in blockchain systems, particularly in areas such as ZK-rollups, Layer 2 solutions, and bridge systems
• Protocol Development: Design and implement blockchain protocols and experimental features using Rust
• System Architecture: Architect and develop robust distributed systems with a focus on scalability and security
• Documentation & Publication: Document research findings and contribute to technical papers and specifications

Key Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in systems programming using Rust, Go, or C++
• Strong background in distributed systems and blockchain technology
• Deep understanding of cryptographic primitives and their implementations
• Proficiency in blockchain fundamentals including:
• Consensus protocols (PoW, PoS, PBFT, Tendermint)
• P2P networking and distributed systems
• Blockchain security and cryptography
• Experience with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other major blockchain platforms
• Strong algorithmic problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a research-oriented environment

Preferred Requirements

• Experience with Zero-Knowledge Proof systems and ZK-VM implementation
• Contributions to open-source blockchain projects
• Academic research experience or publications in relevant fields
• Experience with Layer 2 scaling solutions (Rollups, State Channels)
• Knowledge of advanced cryptographic protocols (SNARKs, STARKs)