International Relations Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship at Tufts University

Tufts University is initiating a program in cyber security and policy that will combine the efforts of the Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy and the School of Engineering, Department of Computer Science. As part of this effort, through a grant from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, Professor Susan Landau will be examining the policy and organizational oversight needed to trust Internet security technologies. This research involves comparative analysis of competing structures for developing standards and guidelines in telecommunications security. The research will involve analyzing international response to the development of cybersecurity and cryptographic standards by private-sector organizations, industry, and government research labs. The preferred appointee will have an International Relations background; experience with technology policy will be a bonus. The research work will involve extensive interviewing of stakeholders in the field, and thus a willingness and ability to conduct such work is important.

One intended aspect of this fellowship is improving cross-disciplinary background and skills in cybersecurity policy. Thus, it is expected that the postdoc appointee will spend significant effort gaining technical background to understand cybersecurity concerns.

This is a one-year appointment beginning in September 2018 (an earlier start date is possible). There is the possibility of renewal for a second year.

The Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy offers a rich array of talks and discussions that will enrich the fellowship year; this includes a September 2018 Symposium in Cybergovernance. The Tufts School of Engineering Department of Computer Science offers courses in security and in cybersecurity policy, and this will provide various interesting opportunities for the postdoctoral scholar. In addition, the Boston area offers a rich array of talks and scholars in cybersecurity, policy, and related areas.

Qualifications:

• Completion of a PhD in International Relations or related field.
• Some knowledge or experience in cybersecurity issues (need not be formal).
• Evidence of background or strong interest in national security, tech policy, or related fields.
• Evidence of strong writing skills, including clear and concise communications to a non-specialist audience.
• Evidence of strong verbal skills, including the ability to communicate complex policy and technical material.
• Delight in working in and expanding research within a cross-disciplinary setting.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Application materials include: a cover letter explaining your background and interest in the area, CV, a writing sample (if available); preferred sample is a communication to a non-technical audience, a list of three recommenders (names and contact information), a description of research interests, and graduate school transcript (if PhD is within the last three years). These materials should be submitted to fletcherpostdoc@tufts.edu.

Please reference Post Doc # 18-003 in the subject line of your email. Thank you.