Research Assistant / Associate MicrOS

The University of Manchester - Department of Computer Science

Job reference: SAE-030980
Salary: £32,080 - £46,049 depending on relevant experience
Faculty/Organisational Unit: Science and Engineering
Location: Oxford Road
Employment type: Fixed Term
Division/Team: Department of Computer Science
Hours Per Week: 35 hours per week (1 FTE)
Closing date (DD/MM/YYYY): 23/03/2026
Contract Duration: Fixed term for 17 months
School/Directorate: School of Engineering

A 17 months research assistant position is open in the Advanced Processor Technologies research group of the Computer Science Department at the University of Manchester in the UK, in the domain of systems software security. A particular focus of the position is low-level kernel development in embedded systems equipped with a CPU that does not integrate a memory management unit (noMMU scenarios).

The successful candidate will join a sponsored research project targeting software security on small, cost-effective embedded devices. Today these platforms face serious security threats such as supply chain attacks or data leaks. This is particularly concerning given how widespread and security-critical these devices are: they are used for controlling vital computer systems in many domains, such as critical infrastructure and equipment, automotive and transport, IoT, consumer electronics, etc.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.