Research Intern (HK STEM)

We are hiring for one of our ecosystem projects. The company is shifting the future of value extraction. 

They are the next generation automated smart contract auditing system focusing on Zero-Day Exploits. They are a blockchain security startup, composed of industry security researchers and scholars, providing top-notch security solutions through our technology precipitation and innovative research.

Their security solutions rely on computation intensive with automation rather than labor intensive, significantly reducing the cost of auditing. They see value extraction on smart contracts as a 2-step black box optimization process. They facilitate the search by algorithmic parsing, efficient stateful computation techniques, and innovative feedback mechanisms.

We are seeking a skilled optimisation researcher with expertise. You will work closely with the research driven CEO and extend the technicality of automation and optimization process. 

You will be responsible for helping to develop algorithms for general value extraction on smart contracts, which can be treated as different sophisticated forms of test functions. Web3 experience is not necessary. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of black-box optimization coupled with proficiency in researching and developing Machine Learning (ML) methods for discrete and continuous optimization.

• Conduct cutting-edge research in optimization techniques and apply in Web3 domain, focusing on vulnerability detection, protocol analysis, and security enhancements.
• Develop innovative methods for discrete optimization for test suite generations through a deep understanding of the nature of different runtime and smart contracts.
• Develop innovative algorithms for optimizing the searching processes with comprehensive coverage for different types of value extractions.
• Apply ML-based approaches to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the searching frameworks in identifying vulnerabilities and defects.
• Develop a benchmark to evaluate the efficacy of different algorithms independently.
• Collaborate internally with engineers and advise externally with cross-functional teams, including scholars and security researchers, to integrate ML optimization techniques into existing system architecture.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in algorithmic optimization, proposing novel approaches for continuous improvement.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in optimization, including experience in web application solving test functions for optimization problems.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Rust, C++, or Solidity.
• Strong interest in learning blockchain technology and smart contract operations.
• Proficiency in researching and developing ML or optimization methods for continuous optimization problems, ideally with a focus on improving searching processes.
• Proficiency in researching and developing test suite generation in computer systems, ideally with understanding of different blockchain runtime environments and nature of smart contracts.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities, with an intellectual curiosity in exploring new techniques and driving innovation.
• Effective communication skills to collaborate with diverse teams and present research findings and recommendations