Research Associate/ Fellow (AI for Cybersecurity - Automatic Agentic Penetration Testing)

National University of Singapore; Kent (WA); On-site; USD 47,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research university is seeking a Research Fellow for the AI for Cybersecurity project, hosted at the Institute of Data Science. The role involves conducting in-depth research in machine learning and cybersecurity, leading to impactful publications and real-world implementations. Candidates must hold a PhD in Computer Science and demonstrate a strong track record in AI research. This position offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with top researchers and industry partners on cutting-edge technology.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, specializing in cybersecurity, machine learning, or AI.
• Proven independent research ability with a relevant publication record.
• Strong AI publication background in machine learning or deep learning.
• Knowledge in cybersecurity applications such as penetration testing.
• Proficiency in programming with experience in ML frameworks.
• Excellent interpersonal communication and oral presentation skills in English.

Responsibilities

• Develop new algorithms for cybersecurity and automated penetration testing.
• Work within a fast-paced research environment.
• Stay updated on state-of-the-art methodologies.
• Generate application ideas for research outcomes.
• Engage in knowledge exchange with external partners.

Skills

Machine Learning

Data Science

Artificial Intelligence

Cybersecurity

Python

Deep Learning

Reinforcement Learning

Education

PhD in Computer Science

Tools

PyTorch

TensorFlow

Job description

Research Associate/ Fellow (AI for Cybersecurity - Automatic Agentic Penetration Testing)

University-Level Unit: Institute of Data Science Faculty/Department-Level Unit: Institute of Data Science Employee Category: Research Staff Location: Kent Ridge Campus Posted On: 17/11/2025

Overview

We are looking to recruit a Research Fellow for the project “AI for Cybersecurity – Automatic Agentic Penetration Testing”, which will be hosted at the Institute of Data Science (IDS), National University of Singapore (NUS) and led by Prof Ng See Kiong. This project advances state-of-the-art AI methods to create effective AI agents for automated penetration testing. Selected candidates will contribute to deep AI research as well as focused translational work and system development for real-world users and industry partners.

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. Please include links to your GitHub repositories showcasing your best project relevant to these topics in your CV/cover letters.

Job Description

Job Summary: The Research Fellow will be responsible for undertaking in-depth research and innovation in machine learning, data science, and artificial intelligence on cybersecurity that leads to publications in top-tier international conferences and journals, as well as real-world implementations. The role includes designing novel algorithms, building robust software systems, and collaborating with stakeholders to translate research into practical tools and workflows. Candidates will be working alongside researchers and practitioners in AI, cybersecurity, and software engineering.

Responsibilities:

• Develop new concepts and algorithms in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence for cybersecurity and automated penetration testing.
• Ability to work in a face-paced research environment.
• Be up to date on state-of-the-art methodologies in related technical fields and application domains.
• Develop ideas for application of research outcomes.
• Contribute to knowledge exchange activities with external partners and collaborators.

Requirements

• PhD in Computer Science, with specialization related to cybersecurity, machine learning, data mining or artificial intelligence.
• Proven ability to conduct independent research with a strong and relevant publication record.
• Prior AI expertise with a strong publication track record in areas such as machine learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning or LLMs/agents.
• Knowledge and demonstrable interest in cybersecurity applications (e.g., penetration testing, vulnerability discovery).
• Proficiency in programming and software engineering (Python preferred), including experience with ML frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow).
• Excellent interpersonal communication and oral presentation skills in English.

More Information

Location: Kent Ridge Campus

Organization: Institute of Data Science

Department : Institute of Data Science

Employee Referral Eligible: No

Job requisition ID : 30977