Discover cryptography careers
Cryptography professionals may work in industries such as technology, finance, government, or academia. An evolving field, cryptography careers combine implementation and research. After pursuing education in cryptography, learners may go on to become cryptography engineers, cryptography researchers, cryptography analysts, risk and security engineers, security architectes, and more. Cryptographers can also be found in diverse fields such as machine learning, reverse engineering, and cryptocurrency.
What do cryptographers do?
Cryptographers build and maintain complex computer systems to protect sensitive data from hackers, misuse, cybercrime, leaks, and more. Cryptographers may work with different types of cryptography, including quantum cryptography, Python cryptography, symmetric cryptography, and asymmetric cryptography (public key cryptography). Cryptographers also use different methods of threat detection to protect data, and test out and study new cryptography methods to keep up with emerging threats.
Day-to-day, cryptographers develop encryption techniques and security systems, writing and testing the strength of their code to ensure privacy. Cryptographers are likely to respond to data breaches and security threats as well, and conduct audits of a company’s existing encryption practices. Cryptographers will also have to communicate their work to relevant stakeholders across various levels of their company, whether it be in the form of written or oral presentations.Footnote 7
How to become a cryptographer
Those who want to understand how to learn cryptography or how to pursue cryptography careers may start with a bachelor’s in computer science, information technology, mathematics, or cybersecurity, or cybersecurity bootcamps. From there, a learner could narrow their focus to cryptography. A general cryptography online course followed by more targeted study is also an option.
Cryptography is highly collaborative because researchers have to keep up with the latest developments to prevent emerging threats and to maintain security. Cryptographers also consult with experts or resources to work through issues. That means doing research, attending in-person events, and studying how others deal with cryptography problems. As a result, those looking to advance their careers or land particularly desirable jobs can teach a workshop at a conference or an online cryptography course; publish original research in peer-reviewed journals; or rank well enough in competitions or challenges to build social capital within the information security community.
