Associate Security and Privacy Researcher

This Role Speaks to You If...

You're naturally curious about how technology works and enjoy exploring new systems and ideas. Maybe you've studied networking, cybersecurity, software development, telecommunications, or a related field, or you've developed your skills through personal projects, labs, or open-source communities.

You might already be familiar with technologies like IP, TCP, and HTTP, and you're excited by the opportunity to learn about advanced telecoms technologies such as 5G networks, fibre broadband, SCTP, NGAP, and 5G Service-Based Architecture (SBI). This role offers a unique chance to gain hands-on experience with carrier-grade systems that few organisations can provide access to.

You're someone who enjoys investigating problems, testing ideas, and understanding how complex systems operate. Whether through academic projects, internships, work experience, or personal learning, you've developed a genuine interest in technology and security and are eager to build your expertise in a supportive research environment.

As a trusted and independent national capability, UKTL interacts with standards bodies, Academia, and Government Departments as well as Communications Service Providers and equipment vendors.

Successful Applicants must be able to commute to the UKTL offices in Birmingham at least twice a week

We strive to offer a great work life balance - if you are looking for full time, part time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where business possible. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in. 

What You'll Bring

We're looking for individuals who can demonstrate an interest in one or more of the following areas:

• Cybersecurity and telecoms technologies
• Radio communications and Software Defined Radio (SDR)
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Cryptography

Hardware or software development

Mobile network technologies, including 5G

SIM and JavaCard technologies

Non-terrestrial and satellite networks

Alongside this, you'll ideally have:

• A degree (or equivalent experience) in Cyber Security, Computer Science, Telecommunications, Electronic Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related discipline
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• A willingness to learn and investigate technical challenges
• The ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Some experience with software development, scripting, or technical projects gained through study, work, or personal interests
• Familiarity with Linux or a willingness to develop Linux-based skills
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• An interest in security, networking, research, or emerging technologies

Desirable but not essential:

• Experience with Python, C/C++, Java, or other programming languages
• Exposure to cybersecurity tools, networking technologies, or cloud environments
• Knowledge of telecoms technologies such as 4G, 5G, or networking protocols
• Familiarity with reverse engineering tools such as Ghidra or IDA Pro
• Participation in personal projects, Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges, hackathons, or open-source communities

Most importantly, we're looking for individuals who are enthusiastic, curious, and motivated to learn.

Please note:  Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward.  We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in this specific area means that nationality, residency and security requirements are more tightly defined than others. To work in this role, you will need to hold an SC clearance with no restrictions. You are welcome to apply without already holding SC clearance; however, you will not be able to start in post until the clearance has been successfully granted.

UKTL is building leading edge Telecoms testing facilities to keep our telecommunications networks safe, accelerate the roll-out of new technologies, and grow our world leading telecoms sector to maintain resiliency and security. 

Read more about UKTL here!

Successful candidates will join a state-of-the-art facility and be supporting the team conducting testing and research on the latest technologies and innovations in the industry. You will work alongside our infrastructure and Cybersecurity professionals to ensure that the UK’s world class Telecoms infrastructure grows in a resilient and secure manner underpinning growth in other industry sectors.

As a trusted and independent national capability, UKTL interacts with standards bodies, Academia, and Government Departments as well as Communications Service Providers and equipment vendors.

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. Find out more about what it is like working here - The measure of us - Overview

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. 

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. More about this on our Diversity & Inclusion page.

We offer a wealth of above industry standard benefits, such as enhanced pension scheme, flexible working, and more that can be found here rewards, benefits and recognition. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing