Thesis: Cracking the Code - Developing an Interactive Software Security Escape Room

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.com) currently operates 76 institutes and research units throughout Germany and is a leading applied research organization. Around 32 000 employees work with an annual research budget of 3.4 billion euros.

Welcome to the Fraunhofer Institute for Mechatronic Design IEM!
At the »Zukunftsmeile« in Paderborn, Germany, we conduct practical research to develop innovative solutions for mechanical and plant engineering, the automotive industry and related sectors. The focus is on intelligent products, production systems, services and software applications.

Software security is more critical than ever in today’s digital world. This thesis focuses on designing, implementing, and evaluating a Software Security Escape Room—an interactive game that educates participants on key software security risks in an engaging way. The game will challenge players to solve security-related puzzles individually or in teams, fostering hands-on learning and awareness.

What you will do

Conduct research on the use of escape rooms for software security education
Design and develop a prototype escape room with realistic security challenges
Test and refine the game through user studies with diverse target groups
Analyze the impact of the game on security awareness and learning outcomes

What you bring to the table

You are studying Computer Science, Business Information Systems, or a related field
Solid programming skills in Java, Python, or a similar language
Interest in software security and innovative awareness-raising methods
Strong problem-solving skills and creativity
Good communication skills in German and/or English

What you can expect

A strong team culture with flat hierarchies is a matter of course for us. This means: high esteem and trust
Professional supervision and specialist support in the preparation of the student research project/thesis
Insight into the current challenges of the company
Flexible working from home to combine studies and work in the best possible way

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

Additional questions will be answered gladly by:
Ms. Samira Taaibi
Fraunhofer-Institut für Entwurfstechnik Mechatronik IEM
Zukunftsmeile 1 | 33102 Paderborn

Web: https://www.iem.fraunhofer.de/

Requisition Number: 78211 Application Deadline: 28.02.2025

Job Segment: Testing, Developer, Computer Science, Technology, Automotive, Research

Apply now »