Research Associate (Postdoc) in Blockchain Analytics and Data Engineering at the University of Luxembourg
About the University
The University of Luxembourg is an international research university known for its multilingual and interdisciplinary character.
The Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT) is a leading research and innovation hub specializing in secure, reliable, and trustworthy ICT systems. SnT drives technological advancement by building strong research partnerships with industry, fostering R&D investment, and nurturing globally competitive talent.
Our researchers work across a broad range of areas, including Network Security, Cloud Computing, Cryptography, Vehicular Networks, Information Assurance, and Satellite Systems.
About the FINATRAX Research Group
Successful candidates will join the FINATRAX Research Group, a dynamic, interdisciplinary team operating at the intersection of business research and information systems engineering. The group explores how emerging technologies shape public and private organizations, drawing from fields such as computer science, engineering, management, law, and economics.
The position is part of Prof. Gilbert Fridgen’s PayPal-FNR PEARL Research Grant and the FutureFinTech National Centre of Excellence in Research and Innovation, combining expertise in data science, blockchain analytics, and financial crime prevention.
Your Role
The Postdoctoral Researcher will focus on the analysis of large-scale blockchain data to identify illicit activity, enhance DeFi transparency, and inform financial regulation. You will:
Conduct and supervise interdisciplinary blockchain research using large on-chain datasets.
Design, implement, and maintain scalable data pipelines that ingest blockchain data (blocks, transactions, smart-contract events) into research databases.
Develop statistical, graph, and machine-learning models to study transaction networks, DeFi protocol behavior, and potential illicit activity.
Build open-source tools and datasets that advance the study of blockchain-based financial systems.
Collaborate with researchers in law, finance, and economics on issues such as governance, compliance (MiCA, AML/CTF), and digital identity.
Publish findings in top-tier conferences and journals in information systems and computer science.
Work with governmental bodies, analytics vendors, and financial institutions to validate and apply research outcomes.
Manage research projects, attract external funding, and supervise PhD students and research assistants.
For inquiries, contact nadia.pocher@uni.lu and gilbert.fridgen@uni.lu.
Requirements & Qualifications
PhD in Information Systems, Computer/Data Science, Software Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
Proven record of peer-reviewed publications in high-quality conferences or journals.
Research experience with blockchain and Web3 data (Ethereum, Solana, Bitcoin, DeFi protocols).
Strong programming skills in Python, R, Rust, or JavaScript.
Familiarity with smart-contract interaction tools (web3.py, ethers.js, Solidity, Vyper) and development frameworks such as Hardhat, Truffle, or Ganache.
Knowledge of blockchain analytics platforms like Dune, Nansen, Graph, or Arkham.
Interest in topics such as DeFi economics, on-chain privacy (ZKPs, mixers), and regulatory frameworks (MiCA, AML/CFT).
Ability to work in a highly interdisciplinary environment combining quantitative and qualitative approaches.
Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with regulators and industry stakeholders.
Excellent written and spoken English.
Benefits & Perks
A multilingual, international research environment with staff from over 90 countries.
Access to cutting-edge facilities and strong collaboration with Luxembourg’s tech and financial sectors.
Partnership opportunities with European institutions, ministries, and innovative private companies.
A modern campus, excellent infrastructure, and a collaborative academic culture.
How to Apply
Applications (in English) must include:
A cover letter with:
A 250-word research statement outlining your academic interests.
A 250-word statement of personal motivation.
A 250-word strategy for research grant and industry partnership acquisition.
Full CV with publication list.
Up to three full-text publications authored by the candidate.
Academic transcripts of all university courses and grades.
Applications must be submitted online via the HR system. Email applications will not be considered.
The University of Luxembourg is committed to gender parity, inclusion, and diversity. Where profiles are equivalent, preference will be given to female candidates in departments where parity has not yet been reached.
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