Open Positions in the Group

Current openings in the group:

• PhD student in systems security
• Internship in systems security

Information for Applicants

See the information below on how to apply.

Familiarizing yourself with the group’s past research will help preparing a solid application.

Prospective PhD Students

There are two streams through which you can apply. (Please apply through one of them only!)

Your first option is through the CS@max planck program. This is best if you are also interested in other groups or would like to explore options at several Max Planck institutes. Mention Hugo Lefeuvre in your application if you are interested in joining the group.

Your second option is a direct application. This is best if you are certain that you want to join this group. To do so, please contact us with the following documents:

• CV and transcripts.
• Contact information of two or more referees willing to provide letters of recommendation.
• A statement of purpose describing your relevant experience and research interests. Try to at least answer the following questions:
  • What is your motivation to do a PhD (in computer systems and security)?
  • Why do you want to join this group?
  • If you have prior research experience: Which problems did you work on? Why do they matter? What did you do to solve them?
  • Which past experiences and achievements are you most proud of? These do not need to be research-related (think about extra-curricular activies, community service, teaching, professional experience, etc.). This should not be redundant with your CV.
  • What makes you unique/different?

It is a good idea to carefully polish your statement of purpose. Get lots of feedback from your advisors, mentors, and friends! You can find pointers on how to write a great statement of purpose below.

Prospective Interns

Apply to the internship program and mention Hugo Lefeuvre in your application.

Useful Links

• EPFL EPIC Guide: Statement of Purpose: guide written by EPFL students on how to write a great statement of purpose. These points also apply to MPI.
• MIT CommKit: Graduate School Statement of Purpose: another guide on how to write a statement of purpose.
• Applying to Ph.D. Programs in Computer Science: guide on applying to graduate school. Somewhat US-centric, but solid general advice.
• What’s it like to be a PhD student in Germany: our colleague Andreas Zeller from CISPA describes what to expect from a PhD in Germany. These also apply to MPI.