Lead Architect - Advanced Cryptography

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Description

We are seeking an Advanced Cryptography Specialist with deep expertise in zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) and privacy-preserving cryptographic protocols. The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in cryptography or a closely related field and have several years of hands-on experience applying advanced cryptographic techniques within the financial sector. The candidate will help leverage innovative cryptography at JPMorgan Chase.  As a member of the Emerging Technologies Security group within the Cybersecurity & Technology Controls organization, you will work alongside cryptographers and a group of passionate security engineers to solve complex security problems and support the deployment of cryptography-based solutions.

The position requires software development experience and strong industry experience (5 years or more) in combining cryptography and security best-practices to secure complex IT infrastructure, customer-facing services, and sensitive customer and enterprise data.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research & Development: Lead the design, analysis and application of cryptographic protocols, with a focus on zero-knowledge proofs, privacy-preserving technologies and quantum-safe cryptography.
• Solution Implementation: Architect and implement cryptographic solutions for privacy and confidentiality in financial and non-financial applications, including blockchain-based systems.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other cryptographers, product, engineering, and compliance teams to integrate advanced cryptographic techniques into real-world financial products and services.
• Security Assessment: Evaluate and enhance the security of existing and new cryptographic protocols, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Thought Leadership: Stay abreast of the latest research in cryptography and privacy, and represent the organization in academic and industry forums.
• Mentorship: Guide and mentor junior cryptographers and engineers in advanced cryptographic concepts and best practices.
• Assess existing cryptographic libraries
• Evaluate existing crypto-agile approaches and tools – help define and implement JPMC-centric solutions
• Assist with performance impact assessment of post-quantum cryptography solutions and deployments
• Communicate ongoing work with other teams or organizations

Required Qualifications:

• Education: PhD in Cryptography, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a closely related field, with a dissertation or significant research in zero-knowledge proofs or privacy-preserving cryptography.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years of post-PhD experience applying advanced cryptographic techniques, preferably in the financial sector (e.g., banking, payments, digital assets, or related domains).
• Technical Expertise:
  • Deep understanding of zero-knowledge proofs (e.g., zk-SNARKs, zk-STARKs, Bulletproofs, Sigma protocols).
  • Strong background in privacy technologies (e.g., confidential transactions, ring signatures, secure multi-party computation).
  • Proficiency in cryptographic protocol design, analysis, and implementation.
• Experience with cryptographic libraries and tools (e.g., libsnark, Zokrates, Circom, or similar).
• Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with regulatory and compliance considerations for privacy technologies in the financial sector.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts to technical and non-technical audiences.

The Cybersecurity & Technology Controls group at JPMorgan Chase aligns the firm’s cybersecurity, access management, controls and resiliency teams. The group proactively and strategically partners with all lines of business and functions to enable them to design, adopt and integrate appropriate controls; deliver processes and solutions efficiently and consistently; and drive automation of controls. The group’s number one priority is to enable the business by keeping the firm safe, stable and resilient.

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ABOUT US
JPMorganChase, one of the oldest financial institutions, offers innovative financial solutions to millions of consumers, small businesses and many of the world’s most prominent corporate, institutional and government clients under the J.P. Morgan and Chase brands. Our history spans over 200 years and today we are a leader in investment banking, consumer and small business banking, commercial banking, financial transaction processing and asset management.

We offer a competitive total rewards package including base salary determined based on the role, experience, skill set and location. Those in eligible roles may receive commission-based pay and/or discretionary incentive compensation, paid in the form of cash and/or forfeitable equity, awarded in recognition of individual achievements and contributions. We also offer a range of benefits and programs to meet employee needs, based on eligibility. These benefits include comprehensive health care coverage, on-site health and wellness centers, a retirement savings plan, backup childcare, tuition reimbursement, mental health support, financial coaching and more. Additional details about total compensation and benefits will be provided during the hiring process. 

We recognize that our people are our strength and the diverse talents they bring to our global workforce are directly linked to our success. We are an equal opportunity employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. We also make reasonable accommodations for applicants’ and employees’ religious practices and beliefs, as well as mental health or physical disability needs. Visit our FAQs for more information about requesting an accommodation.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Veterans

ABOUT THE TEAM
Our professionals in our Corporate Functions cover a diverse range of areas from finance and risk to human resources and marketing. Our corporate teams are an essential part of our company, ensuring that we’re setting our businesses, clients, customers and employees up for success.