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Cryptography Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lawrence Harvey

Chief Cryptographer

Manhattan, NY

The company is now building out a dedicated cryptography research arm to shape the long-term architecture and research direction across its encrypted product suite. This is a rare opportunity to lead ...

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How much do cryptography research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for cryptography research in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a cryptography researcher?

To become a cryptography researcher, one typically needs a strong background in mathematics, computer science, or related fields, often holding at least a master's degree or Ph.D. in these areas. Developing expertise in algorithms, cryptographic protocols, and programming languages like Python or C++ is essential, along with experience in research environments and familiarity with cryptographic tools and standards.

What is a Cryptography Research job?

A Cryptography Research job involves studying and developing secure communication techniques to protect data from unauthorized access. Researchers analyze cryptographic algorithms, design new encryption methods, and assess vulnerabilities in existing security systems. They often work with mathematical models, computer science principles, and real-world security applications. Their work is critical in fields like cybersecurity, blockchain, and secure communications.

Is a PhD in cryptography worth it?

A PhD in cryptography can enhance expertise and open opportunities in research, academia, and advanced security roles. However, it requires significant time and effort, and many positions in industry also value practical skills and experience alongside advanced degrees.

How much does a CIA cryptographer make?

A CIA cryptographer typically earns a salary comparable to federal government cybersecurity and intelligence professionals, often ranging from $70,000 to over $150,000 annually depending on experience, education, and security clearance level. Advanced skills in cryptography, security clearances, and specialized training can influence compensation within this range.

Can you get a PhD in cryptography?

A PhD in cryptography is a doctoral degree typically pursued within computer science or mathematics programs, focusing on advanced research in encryption, security protocols, and related areas. Cryptography research roles often require a PhD for specialized positions, and earning one involves completing coursework, original research, and a dissertation. This degree prepares individuals for academic, research, or high-level industry roles in cryptography.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cryptography Research position, and why are they important?

To excel in Cryptography Research, a strong background in mathematics, computer science, and information security—often supported by an advanced degree (e.g., Master's or PhD)—is essential. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and specialized cryptography libraries or tools, along with familiarity with standards like AES, RSA, and knowledge of security protocols, is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills allow researchers to confidently share findings and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for advancing cryptographic methods, addressing emerging security threats, and ensuring the practical application of research outcomes.

What types of projects and collaboration can I expect in a cryptography research position?

As a Cryptography Researcher, you'll often work on projects such as developing and analyzing new encryption algorithms, conducting security assessments of existing protocols, or contributing to open-source cryptography libraries. Collaboration is common with other researchers, software engineers, and cybersecurity professionals, both within your organization and in cross-functional or academic partnerships. Regular tasks may include publishing research papers, presenting findings, and reviewing technical proposals. This role tends to offer a dynamic work environment, with the potential for career growth into lead research roles, standards development, or specialized positions in academia and industry.

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Cryptography Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cryptography Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Cryptography Research Engineer

Cryptography Research Engineer

Riverside Research

Dayton, OH

$140K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Riverside Overview

Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the country’s most challenging technical problems. All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship.

Position Overview

Riverside Research is seeking a Cryptography Research Engineer to work alongside our US Air Force (USAF) and Department of Defense (DoD) partners to develop tamper protected microelectronic devices and intellectual property (IP). This position will possess a strong understanding of cryptographic algorithm development and implementation, including post-quantum cryptography, and advanced attacks against cryptographic implementations. You will work with hardware security experts employing a range of microelectronics test equipment, custom software, and computing resources to provide the best support to our customers. This position is located at WPAFB, Ohio.

Responsibilities

  • Provides assessments of state-of-the-art implementation attacks against cryptographic algorithms
  • Attends technology interchange meetings at DoD and contractor sites
  • Designs and performs research and experiments to assess attack effectiveness against microelectronic devices
  • Interacts with internal team and trusted third-parties to collect appropriate source information
  • Analyzes secure architectures to identify vulnerabilities
  • Documents findings in technical reports and presentations
  • Develops, maintains, adjusts, and reports on project schedules and timelines
  • Attends technical conferences to understand new attacks and protections
  • Collaborates with Government research leads to conducted research and present papers across a variety of DoD conferences and technical interchanges
  • Supports Principal Investigator and Program Manager in the development and documentation of technical requirements for approved research areas
  • Contributes to proposals for new research in similar and/or related technology areas

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Secret required clearance to start, but must be able obtain Top Secret security clearance and all required program access approvals.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or Mathematics with 5 years direct experience in cryptography or a closely related discipline; or a master’s degree in related academic field and 3 years direct experience in cryptography or embedded hardware security, or a PhD within a related discipline.
  • Strong mathematical foundation in cryptography, excellent English reading skills, eagerness to learn, and desire to perform fundamental research.
  • Familiarity with the finalized NIST Post-Quantum Encryption Standards (CRYSTALS-Kyber, CRYSTALS-Dilithium, Sphincs+ and FALCON) and other public-key cryptographic algorithms (AES, RSA, ECC).
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.
  • Proficient in creating technical reports and presentations supporting research areas.
  • Willing to travel a few times per year.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or Mathematics with 8 years direct experience in cryptography or a closely related discipline; or a master’s degree in related academic field and 6 years direct experience in cryptography or embedded hardware security, or a PhD within a related discipline with 3 years practical experience.
  • Publication history in cryptography or mathematics.
  • Proficiency in Python, Rust, or C++.
  • Experience building cryptographic algorithms in hardware and RTL implementations.
  • Experience with Machine Learning and Data Analysis.
  • Proficiency in common ZK proofs (Groth, SNARKs, STARKs, etc.).
  • Familiarity with common ZK primitives (BLS, ECDSA, Oracle, Hash, Merkel Tree, etc.).
  • Knowledge of standard ZK protocols (Pedersen, Schnorr, KZG, Polynomial Commitment, etc.).
  • Experience with VOLE-based ZK proofs, symmetric key ciphers, or fully homomorphic encryption.
  • Understanding of multi-party computation and obfuscation circuits.
  • Knowledge of blockchain technology design principles and experience with a common blockchain open-source project.

Global Comp

$140,000-$195,000 This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors.

Closing Statement

Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission. Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees. Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other job-related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a not-for-profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran’s status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.

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