PhD Software Security Internship - 2026 summer placement
Overview
This internship focuses on advanced defence and security technology development. The role is suited to a PhD-level researcher with strong technical grounding in software security, cyber technologies, and embedded or distributed systems.
This placement can be between 3- and 6-months duration with a flexible start date, and is suitable for PhD students who have completed their first year of study.
There is no deadline for this role, as we recruit on a rolling basis. Once the position is filled, we will close the advert. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Whatyou'llbedoing
Contributetoresearchanddevelopmentofsecuresystemsacrossdefenceandsecuritydomains.
Supportthecreationofnovelsecuritytechnologies,includingareassuchasthreatlandscaping,post-quantumcryptography,privacy-enhancingtechnologies,andtrustedexecutionapproaches.
Investigateandprototypeembeddedanddistributedsoftwareforconstrained,safety-critical,oradversarialenvironments.
Performthreatanalysis,securityarchitecturereviews,andexperimentalvalidationofnewtechniques.
Collaboratewithmultidisciplinaryteamscoveringsoftware,electronics,RF,AI,autonomy,andcommunications.
Participateinfulllifecycledevelopmentactivities,includingdesign,implementation,testing,anddocumentation.
What youcanbring
CurrentPhDstudyinComputerScience,Engineering,Mathematics,Physics,orarelateddiscipline.
Youwillalsohave:
Abackgroundinsoftwareorhardwareengineering,withademonstrableinterestincybersecurityresearch.
KnowledgeofoneormoreprogramminglanguagessuchasPython,C/C++,Rust,Go,orsimilar.
Theabilitytoundertaketechnicalinvestigationsandcommunicatefindingsclearly.
EligibilitytoobtainUKSecurityClearance.
Desirableexperience:
Experienceinembeddedsoftwaredevelopmentorhardware–softwareinteractions.
ExperienceinsecurityforIoT,robotics,autonomy,orsmartinfrastructure.
Anunderstandingofregulatoryorassuranceenvironmentsforsecurity-criticalsystems.
Some projects at Cambridge Consultants are subject to security restrictions.This role requires you to obtain a Security Check level security clearance ( https://www.gov.uk/guidance/united-kingdom-security-vetting-applicant ). You must be able to work in the UK without restrictions in accordance with UK National Law and be prepared to successfully undertake an appropriate level of UK National Security Vetting according to UK Government National Security Vetting criteria.
Working Environment
A successful intern will work within the Defence and Security business unit, engaging with experienced engineers and researchers on high‑impact client and internal R&D projects. Work may involve both on‑site and laboratory‑based activities.
By submitting an application to Cambridge Consultants, you confirm that the information provided in this application, together with any supporting documentation, is true, complete, and accurate to the best of your knowledge and belief. You understand that any false statement, misleading information, or material omission may render you liable to disqualification from the recruitment process, withdrawal of any offer of employment, or dismissal without notice if discovered following appointment. You acknowledge that the organisation reserves the right to verify the information supplied.