Chief Architect

Summary

Join Partner Chains, a venture within IOHK, as their Chief Architect. This senior technical strategist role requires owning the architectural vision for the Partner Chains protocol, innovating in cross-chain interoperability using advanced cryptographic techniques, and contributing code. You will lead the architectural vision for the Partner Chains Substrate node development, architect a novel cross-chain protocol, guide cryptographic solution integration, and mentor engineering teams. The ideal candidate possesses 15+ years of software development experience, including 5+ years in an architectural or technical leadership role within blockchain or distributed systems. This is a well-funded venture opportunity for entrepreneurial individuals.

Requirements

• 15+ years of experience in software development, with at least 5 years in an architectural or technical leadership role, within blockchain or distributed systems
• Strong expertise in Rust, with extensive experience designing scalable blockchain architectures using the Substrate framework
• Understanding of cryptographic techniques, especially Threshold Signature Schemes (TSS), and their application in cross-chain protocols
• Deep experience working with Ethereum or other blockchain ecosystems, including familiarity with their architecture, smart contracts, and cross-chain challenges
• Proven ability to lead and mentor technical teams, driving protocol design and implementation to meet strategic goals
• Excellent communication skills, capable of articulating complex architectural concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders

Responsibilities

• Define and lead the architectural vision for the Partner Chains Substrate node development, ensuring high standards of scalability, performance, and security
• Architect a novel cross-chain protocol leveraging advanced cryptographic techniques, such as Threshold Signature Schemes (TSS), to drive secure and efficient cross-chain interactions
• Deep understanding of how cross chain transactions, including well known messaging protocols such as IBC, wallet based implements like HTLC
• Guide the integration of cryptographic solutions within our blockchain architecture, ensuring security best practices are followed
• Mentor engineering teams on best practices for Rust development, blockchain architecture, and advanced cryptographic implementation

Preferred Qualifications

• A computer science or other STEM degree
• A passion for cross-chain interoperability and innovation; experience with Cosmos IBC or other bridging technologies

Benefits

• Remote work
• Laptop reimbursement
• New starter package to buy hardware essentials (headphones, monitor, etc)
• Learning & Development opportunities
• Competitive PTO and Sick Leave plan