Research Assistant

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to support the project's first phase: a comprehensive literature review and the design of preliminary countermeasures for text-based phishing attacks. The assistant will work closely with the lead researcher to:

1. Review and synthesize current and emerging literature on social engineering, phishing, and the application of AI in cybersecurity. 2. Analyze how advanced technologies (e.g., LLMs, deepfakes) are leveraged in sophisticated phishing schemes. 3. Assist in conceptualizing and prototyping a chatbot tool that can detect and respond to phishing attempts. 4. Contribute to academic publications and technical documentation.

Project Overview:

Social engineering attacks, especially phishing, continue to be a dominant vector in successful cyberattacks. As emerging technologies—such as Large Language Models (LLMs), deepfakes, and ubiquitous live video conferencing—reshape how these attacks are conducted, traditional countermeasures are rapidly becoming outdated.

This research project aims to:

1. Analyze how recent technologies have transformed the landscape of social engineering.

2. Design and evaluate a prototype chatbot tool that can serve as a second opinion to help users identify and mitigate sophisticated phishing attempts.

This project has the potential to influence the next generation of human-centric cybersecurity tools, especially in the realm of intelligent assistance for phishing prevention.

• Qualifications:
• Required

1. Strong interest in cybersecurity, social engineering, or AI applications.

2. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

3. Ability to conduct independent literature review and synthesize findings.

• Preferred

1. Experience with chatbot frameworks or natural language processing tools.

2. Familiarity with phishing detection techniques or social engineering research.

3. Basic understanding of user-centered design or human factors in security.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Doha, Qatar

Job Function

Researchers

Position Type

Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Part time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information: 

• Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. 

• Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

• Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran. 

• Statement of Assurance