Call for Applications: Public Interest Technologist

This is a full-time position (40 hours per week) to critically analyse technological systems, write about how they affect security, privacy and freedom of expression, and work with grassroots communities to help develop and deploy suitable alternatives. The candidate must be comfortable working independently and will have ample opportunity to shape the project agenda and implementation.

Our work is strengthened by the diversity in background, culture, experience, religion, caste, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, age, and disability. We specifically encourage applications from candidates belonging to marginalised communities.

Roles and Responsibilities

Study and document online censorship and privacy violations by both state and industry actors

Conduct and analyse network measurements to report on internet interference by ISPs and governments

Work towards prevention, detection and mitigation of digital security threats targeted towards human rights defenders and grassroots organisations

Critically appraise technological systems that pose a public interest and suggest inclusive, secure and privacy enhanced choices

Indicative Requirements

• Working knowledge of computer networks, information security and technological architectures
• Demonstrated experience in explaining technical topics in a clear and concise manner
• 3-5 years of experience in developing, deploying or securing non-trivial software in an academic or industry setting
• A degree in computer science and engineering or equivalent is preferred
• Ability to independently conceptualise research projects and see them to completion

Time period

The initial contract will be for a period of 9 months with a possible extension.

Salary and benefits

CIS has a liberal leaves and holidays policy, including paternity leave, menstrual leave and adequate compensatory leave. The salary for this role will be between 80,000 INR - 90,000 INR.

Location

CIS has transitioned into a ‘remote-first’ workplace, and we expect work-from-home protocols (with the option to work out of CIS’s Bengaluru office available) to be in place for the foreseeable future.

Application deadline: 30 September 2024

How to apply?

Please send an email to [email protected], and cc [email protected] with: (i) a brief cover letter; (ii) a resume/CV; (iii) two writing samples, preferably relating to information security/encryption/technology policy; (iv) contact information of two references (we will ask you before reaching out to them).