Embedded Crypto Software (Post-Quantum) Engineer - Internship

At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology.

This internship focuses on embedded cryptography software with a strong emphasis on Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC). The internship aims to evaluate and improve algorithm quality by analyzing Power, Performance, and Area (PPA) metrics such as memory footprint and execution efficiency. The role contributes directly to selecting and optimizing cryptographic solutions suitable for constrained embedded environments.

Missions principales / Job Responsibilities

• Design and implement a measurement framework to evaluate cryptographic algorithms in terms of Flash usage, RAM/stack consumption, and static memory allocation.
• Measure and analyze performance metrics including CPU cycles, latency, and throughput across multiple configurations.
• Execute benchmark campaigns across various compiler optimization levels (O0, O2, Os), compiler versions, and algorithm parameter sets.
• Evaluate constant-time implementations and side-channel hardening options when applicable.
• Produce PPA dashboards, comparison tables, and concise technical recommendations (e.g., “best footprint,” “best performance,” “balanced option”).
• Improve software quality by developing unit tests and validating implementations against official test vectors.
• Perform fuzzing and negative testing when feasible to assess robustness.
• Document results through developer notes, integration guides, and a final technical report with clear graphs and conclusions.
• Prepare and deliver a final presentation summarizing findings, trade-offs, and recommendations.

Profil recherché / Job Qualifications

• Engineering degree in embedded systems, software engineering, computer science, or a related field.
• Strong software development skills in embedded environments.
• Knowledge of CPU architecture and low-level performance considerations.
• Experience working in Linux environments.
• Proficiency with Git and version control workflows.
• Understanding of memory constraints and performance optimization in embedded systems.

Cadence is committed to equal employment opportunity and employment equity throughout all levels of the organization. We strive to attract a qualified and diverse candidate pool and encourage diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

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