Protocol Research Manager

What are we all about?
We are a team of builders and researchers on a mission to empower enterprises and developers worldwide to access and build on decentralized systems.

Our expertise covers several domains: Ethereum and Starknet protocol engineering, layer-2, cryptography research, protocol research, decentralized finance (DeFi), security auditing, formal verification, real-time monitoring, smart contract development, and dapps and enterprise engineering.

Working to solve some of the most challenging problems in the blockchain space, we frequently collaborate with, such as Ethereum Foundation, Starknet Foundation, Gnosis Chain, Flashbots, Forta Protocol, Lido, EigenLayer, Open Zeppelin, RISCZero, Aleph Zero, and many more.

Today, there are nearly 200 of us working remotely from over 45+ countries.

View all our open positions here: https://www.nethermind.io/open-roles

Are you the one?

We are looking for a Protocol Research Manager to head our blockchain protocol research team. This role is perfect for someone with a blend of administrative acumen and a strong research background in blockchain technologies, especially in mechanism design, Layer 1 and Layer 2 designs, systemic risks, and consensus algorithms.

Responsibilities:

Guide and manage a team of dedicated researchers in the development of innovative blockchain protocols, focusing on areas such as L2 designs, prover coordination, sequencer design, and various flavours of staking.
Lead the research efforts on consensus algorithms, transaction fee mechanisms, and auctioning block-building rights, contributing both administrative leadership and hands-on research.
Foster a collaborative environment that encourages the sharing of ideas and debate on research findings.
Ensure the team’s research is communicated effectively through academic papers, blog posts, and forum entries.
Skills:

Advanced degree in Computer Science, Economics, or related field, with a focus on distributed systems, algorithmic game theory, or similar.
Proven leadership experience in managing research teams within the tech or academic sectors, with a strong track record of impactful research publications.
Comprehensive understanding of Ethereum, L2 technologies, and a broad familiarity with consensus protocols.
Exceptional communication skills, capable of motivating a team, articulating complex concepts clearly, and fostering an innovative research culture.
Nice to have:

Experience in teaching or mentoring roles within the field of blockchain technology or related areas.
Proven record in managing academic groups as a professor or post-doctoral researcher, demonstrating leadership and mentorship in a research setting.