Research Internship: Protocol Analysis for Automotive Immobilizer Systems

Project Overview

We're offering a three-month research internship to analyze communication protocols used in a prototype automotive immobilizer system.

This project involves reverse engineering and cracking various protocols, including

• Inter-chip communications (SPI, I²C)
• Automotive networks (CAN, FlexRay, Automotive Ethernet)
• Wireless technologies (433MHz RF, NFC, possibly UWB)

You'll use tools like logic analyzers and proprietary capture systems to decode these communications and develop utilities to assist in the analysis process. The system also includes a cellular component, providing additional learning opportunities, though prior cellular experience is not required.

Who We Are

We're a specialized cybersecurity team working on safety-critical automotive systems. Our expertise includes reverse engineering complex platforms to uncover vulnerabilities and designing security solutions from the ground up.

What You'll Do

• Work with automotive immobilizer hardware and its components
• Discover and analyze various communication protocols
• Document findings and create visual representations of data flows
• Develop small utilities to help with the analysis process
• Present findings in clear, concise documentation
• Participate in regular team meetings to share progress

Location & Logistics

• This internship is for on-site participation at our Eindhoven office in the Netherlands, due to the hands-on nature of hardware research.
• The internship lasts for three months, with the possibility of extension or transitioning to a junior position (typically starting with a one-year contract) for exceptional candidates.
• Preferred start date ASAP.
• You will receive a competitive monthly internship allowance, and commuter allowance to accommodate your learning efforts.