Postdoctoral Fellow

POSITION SUMMARY:

A postdoctoral position is available in the Department of Computer Science at Tulane University in historic Uptown New Orleans. Modern software systems increasingly rely on complex PDF parsers that must interpret underspecified standards, tolerate diverse real-world inputs, and maintain backward compatibility-making them a persistent and high-impact attack surface. The postdoctoral researcher will work with Dr. Jiang Ming's group on developing specification-grounded, structure-aware fuzzing techniques for PDF parsers, including mining ambiguity/gray areas from the Arlington machine-readable PDF model, synthesizing bounded mutation strategies, and implementing high-throughput fuzzing. The successful candidate will supervise and collaborate with graduate and undergraduate researchers, collaborate with external partners/open-source communities as appropriate, and disseminate results through publications and presentations in top-tier security venues. The position is initially for one year with an option for extension, subject to availability of funding. The projected start date for this position is ideally between 05/18 2026 and 06/15/2026.

Tulane University is an equal opportunity educator and employer committed to providing an education and employment environment free of unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Legally protected demographic classifications (such as a person's race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, shared ancestry, disability, genetics, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws) are not relied upon as an eligibility, selection or participation criteria for Tulane's employment or educational programs or activities.

Tulane University is responsible for providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the applicant screening process. If you need assistance in completing an application or during any phase of the interview process, please contact the Office of Human Resources by phone at 504-865-4748 or by email at hr@tulane.edu.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

1. PhD in computer science, computer engineering or a related area.

2. Demonstrated solid hands-on skills in Software and Systems Security.

3. Strong publication records in top-tier cybersecurity venues (e.g., IEEE S&P, USENX Security, CCS, and NDSS).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Familiarity with fuzzing and vulnerability research.

2. Familiarity with file-format / document security.

3. Hands-on experience with program analysis used in fuzzing and measurement.