Zero-Knowledge Cryptography Expert

About the Company

A rapidly growing and highly reputable company in the field of blockchain security, CertiK is a renowned market leader in the industry. With a track record of serving more than 4,798 clients and safeguarding over $597 billion in digital assets, CertiK has also monitored 17,000 projects. Notable clients include Aave, Polygon, Yearn, and Chiliz. The company's investors include Insight Partners, Sequoia, Tiger Global, and other distinguished names.

About the Role

This position plays a pivotal role in supporting CertiK's security-related services that encompass cryptography, blockchain, and cybersecurity. These services include security consulting, reviews, auditing of smart contracts, blockchains, verifying smart contracts, conducting penetration testing, and more. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in cryptography and blockchain, a deep understanding of zero-knowledge protocols, expertise in the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), and overall security.

As a specialist in zero-knowledge cryptography at CertiK, you will be instrumental in securing foundational cryptographic protocols. Responsibilities will involve engaging in blockchain security research with a focus on zero-knowledge proof systems and multi-party computation while collaborating with a team of top-tier security professionals.

While mastery of all zero-knowledge protocols is not mandatory, proficiency in at least one protocol with the ability to quickly grasp others is highly valued. The role requires competence in analyzing and comparing various zero-knowledge protocols, identifying their strengths and weaknesses, and offering practical insights.

Furthermore, you will be tasked with effectively communicating your research findings to team members and at times, engaging directly with clients to explain technical concepts and solutions.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with external protocol developers to audit their code and secure cryptographic protocol implementations.
• Conduct thorough security research on cryptographic protocols and publish findings in technical blog posts or conferences.
• Research zero-knowledge protocols, simplify complex academic papers into understandable insights for fellow engineers.
• Identify and integrate common vulnerabilities in zero-knowledge protocols into internal tools, and stay updated on the latest advancements in zero-knowledge cryptography.

Requirements

• Minimum educational background: Bachelor’s degree with 2+ years of relevant work experience or Master's/Ph.D. in Computer Science, Mathematics, or related fields.
• Strong knowledge of cryptography, including elliptic curve cryptography, cryptographic protocol design, implementation, and circuit design.
• Familiarity with zero-knowledge proof systems like SNARKs, STARKs, and Bulletproofs.
• Proficiency in one of the following programming languages: C/C++, Go, or Rust.

Nice to Have

• Understanding of the blockchain ecosystem, particularly Ethereum and layer2 ZK-rollups.
• Familiarity with domain-specific languages such as Circom and multi-party computation (MPC).
• Strong background in Mathematics, experience in blockchain security, and working knowledge of ZK systems.

Compensation

For candidates in the US, the anticipated annual compensation for this role ranges from $120,000 to $220,000. The exact compensation will be based on the skills and experience of qualified candidates.

CertiK offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees, including medical, vision, dental insurance, 401(k) plan with matching, life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance, HSA, FSA, paid time off, and holidays. Additionally, CertiK provides a variable commission program for business development sales roles.

CertiK is an equal opportunity employer and embraces diversity in the workplace, welcoming qualified candidates from all backgrounds.