The posting
About Us
Illinois ARCS's mission is to identify and solve basic research problems with high scientific impact and high potential economic impact, and to help expand the workforce of highly trained IT researchers. These activities will enhance Singapore's position as a hub for cutting-edge research in information technologies, interactive digital media and adaptive cyber infrastructure, while also facilitating interactions between University of Illinois researchers and research and industry partners in Singapore and Asia.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Cybersecurity Engineer with strong expertise in application security, penetration testing and secure software development. This role blends hands-on offensive security work with the design and development of security-focused tools, frameworks, and prototypes. You will collaborate with researchers to model, test, and exploit vulnerabilities, and work with engineers to integrate security into innovative systems.
Key Responsibilities:
● Conduct advanced penetration testing and vulnerability assessments on applications, networks, and systems.
● Design and develop custom security tools, exploits, and proof-of-concept attacks for research purposes.
● Collaborate with research teams to simulate adversarial tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).
● Analyze security flaws in emerging technologies and propose mitigation strategies.
● Contribute to publications, white papers, and technical reports on findings and methodologies.
● Keep abreast of the latest threat intelligence, attack vectors, and security trends.
● Participate in secure architecture reviews and provide security guidance during software development.
Required Qualifications:
● Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
● Proven experience in penetration testing, ethical hacking, or red teaming.
● Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Python, C/C++, Go, Rust) and scripting for automation.
● Strong understanding of network protocols, operating systems (Windows, Linux), and application security.
● Experience with common penetration testing frameworks and tools (e.g., Kali Linux, Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Wireshark).
● Familiarity with exploit development and reverse engineering.
● Solid knowledge of the MITRE ATT&CK framework and related offensive security models.
Preferred Qualifications:
· OSCP, CREST CRT, INE, or similar certifications or 3 years or more industry experience in the relevant fields.
· Experience in static/dynamic cone analysis, code review, software composition analysis.
· Experience in security research and vulnerability disclosure.
· Knowledge of cloud security (AWS, Azure, GCP) and container security (Docker, Kubernetes).
· Strong technical writing and documentation skills.
· Previous involvement in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions or bug bounty programs.
What We Offer:
· Opportunity to work on cutting-edge security research with a talented, multidisciplinary team.
· A friendly, collaborative, and easy-to-work-in environment where your ideas are valued.
· Competitive salary and benefits package.
· Professional development and conference participation support.
How to Apply:
Please send your CV, a short cover letter, and any relevant portfolio, GitHub repositories, or CTF write-ups to [email protected]



