Ph.D. Candidate: AI for Cybersecurity

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Context

In the era of AI and cybersecurity, the digital landscape is witnessing unprecedented growth in AI-powered technologies. While these advancements bring numerous benefits, they also introduce new cybersecurity challenges. AI has become a formidable tool in the hands of both defenders and attackers, shaping the security landscape in complex ways. The integration of AI into various cybersecurity aspects, including phishing detection and cybercriminal tactics, calls for a comprehensive understanding of the threat landscape.

The successful Ph.D. candidate will delve into academic papers and analyses of cybersecurity incidents to identify potential security threats related to AI. This entails exploring the vulnerabilities and risks inherent in AI applications and understanding the methods employed by cybercriminals in launching AI-based attacks. Using AI-driven tools and innovative AI approaches developed for attack detection, we will measure and analyze the presence of AI in cybercriminal activities. This analysis will provide insights into the evolving strategies adopted by cybercriminals and the effectiveness of AI-driven defense mechanisms.

The ultimate goal of this thesis is to enhance cybersecurity in the face of AI- driven threats, fostering a more secure digital environment. By gaining a deeper understanding of the vulnerabilities and misuse of AI, we aim to strengthen the Internet's security, stability, and overall resilience in light of emerging challenges powered by AI.

The Ph.D. program will take place within the framework of the Joint Base for Cyber Intelligence and Detection project. This project is a French cyber threat intelligence platform led by Thales and involves collaboration with stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. It was established in response to a call from Bpifrance and is an integral part of France's national cyber strategy outlined in the France 2030 investment plan.

Your profile

  • Master's degree or equivalent in cybersecurity/AI/CS/IT or a related field
  • Excellent programming and scripting (Python, Bash, other languages are a plus)
  • Proficiency in Debian/Ubuntu or other Unix-like operating systems
  • Very good knowledge of Web/System security and cyber attacks
  • Excellent written and spoken English
  • Strong background in ML and AI algorithms is a plus
  • Research experience is a plus
  • Industry experience is a plus

What we offer

  • The research team with a strong background in cybersecurity and cyberattacks
  • Collaboration with top industry players, such as Thales
  • Publications at top conferences (e.g., Network and Distributed System Security Symposium, Internet Measurement Conference, IEEE European Symposium on Security and Privacy)
  • Strong supervision
  • International and a very dynamic team

LIG laboratory is located in Grenoble, the capital of the Alps. It is a major French scientific and industrial center for computer science and applied mathematics. The city lies amidst three mountain ranges and offers an exceptional quality of life, with efficient public transportation and dedicated bikeways.

How to apply

Applicants should send a detailed CV along with a motivation letter, last diploma, transcripts of undergraduate and graduate studies to maciej.korczynski@univ-grenoble-alpes.fr. Email subject must start with "[Ph.D. Application: AI for Cybersecurity]". References or letters of recommendation are appreciated.