Job Description

We are looking for research assistants to join our team in the research area Critical Information Infrastructures (cii). In our research group we explore information systems and internet technologies (e.g., blockchain, cloud computing), their design, their use, and their mutual effects on organizations, consumers, industries, and our society. As part of your employment, you will work on an exciting research project to promote the user-friendly, sustainable, and socially desirable design of future information systems. Research activities include important basic research as well as practical applicability. The opportunity to pursue a PhD is available and encouraged.

Research Assistant (m/f/d, 100% TV-L E13)

We offer an interesting and multifaceted work in the context of innovative research topics; first-class cutting-edge research with real-world applications; a stimulating working atmosphere in an interdisciplinary and dynamic team; integration into a research group with intensive PhD support; assuming responsibility in interdisciplinary projects at an early stage; a variety of personal development opportunities through involvement in teaching activities; exchange and collaboration with world-leading research institutions and industry partners; the opportunity to participate in international conferences. Activities include many facets of applied computer science (e.g., developing and implementing innovative concepts, mastering challenges in the design of IT artifacts, and investigating the intended and unintended effects of information systems on their environment).

We expect: you have a university degree (Diploma (university)/Master) in computer science, industrial engineering, information systems, information economics or related fields; experience in system development; a keen interest in the use of current technologies (e.g. artificial intelligence , blockchain or cloud computing) and the security of IT systems in various contexts; a high level of commitment and interest in high-quality research; a willingness to create and submit research papers to top journals; a high level of self-discipline and independence; a willingness to engage in (continuous) self-directed learning; creativity and openness to work in interdisciplinary projects as well as a willingness to cooperate nationally and internationally with partners in academia and practice; an enjoyment of taking on responsibility; excellent communication skills and a very good command of German and English. Distinct previous knowledge in software development is advantageous.

Our research group is part of the Institute for Applied Informatics and Formal Description Methods (AIFB) at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). The research group is led by Prof. Dr. Ali Sunyaev and is one of the world's leading institutions in the areas of Distributed Ledger Technology, Cloud Computing and Information Privacy. We deal with interdisciplinary research questions concerning the conceptual or socio-technical design, development and evaluation of reliable, secure and user-centric information systems in the private and public sector. In addition to technical aspects, social and organizational perspectives play an important role. In our research we deal with theory building as well as with the development of applications and methods with a high practical relevance. Our interdisciplinary research spans different domains such as trustworthy Internet-based systems, de:centralization of information systems, and design, use and evaluation of digital health services and technologies.

As one of the eleven universities of excellence in Germany, KIT uniquely combines the traditions of a renowned technical university and an important large-scale research institution. In this context, KIT considers itself responsible for making contributions to the sustainable solution of major tasks of society, the economy, and the environment through research and teaching. To this end, KIT uses its financial and human resources with the best possible effectiveness. KIT scientists communicate the contents and results of their work to society.  Engineering sciences, natural sciences, and humanities and social sciences form the KIT canon of subjects. With a high degree of interdisciplinary interaction, they develop topics from fundamentals to application, from the development of new technologies to reflection on the relationship between humans and technology. In order to achieve this in the best possible way, research at KIT covers the entire spectrum: from basic research to industry-oriented, applied research, from small research projects to long-term large-scale research projects. Scientific honesty and striving for excellence are the basis of all activities. Worldwide exchange, large-scale international research projects, numerous global cooperations, and cultural diversity characterize and enrich life and work at KIT. Early contact with interdisciplinary research projects, integration into international teams, and the use of unique research facilities open up special development and advancement perspectives for employees.

Remuneration is based on the collective agreement for the public sector in pay group 13, TV-L.

KIT attaches great importance to the professional equality of women and men. We are therefore particularly pleased to receive applications from women. Severely disabled applicants will be given preferential consideration if they are suitable.

Please send your application with the usual documents (cover letter, curriculum vitae, certificates, etc.) by e-mail to Prof. Dr. Ali Sunyaev or by mail to:

Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)
Institut AIFB
Prof. Dr. Ali Sunyaev
Kaiserstr. 89
76133 Karlsruhe

For further information please contact Prof. Dr. Ali Sunyaev.