S2E LAB // RECRUITING

We want you to help advance the fields of software security and software engineering.

We welcome curious, ambitious, and driven students who want to work at the intersection of software engineering and software security.

Explore opportunities
Joanna Santos portrayed in a classic patriotic recruiting poster, pointing toward the viewer
YOUR RESEARCHCAN MAKE AN IMPACT.

01 // FIND YOUR PATH

Ways to join the S2E lab

Choose the path that matches where you are in your studies. Every path starts with intellectual curiosity, initiative, and a genuine interest in our research.

Which student path describes you?
01

Ph.D. students

Required Apply to the Ph.D. program

Submit your application through Notre Dame’s formal admissions process and list Prof. Santos as a faculty member of interest.

Ph.D. program & application
Optional Email Prof. Santos

If you choose to reach out, follow the email guidelines and include the Ph.D.-specific materials below.

Read the email guidelines
02

Master’s students

Eligibility Already at Notre Dame?

This path is for current ND master’s students looking for a capstone advisor.

Next step Email Prof. Santos

Follow the email guidelines and attach only your CV and transcripts—no research statement is needed.

Read the email guidelines
03

Undergraduates

Required Apply through STRAND

Find the S2E Lab project and submit your application through Notre Dame’s undergraduate research platform.

Visit STRAND
Optional Email Prof. Santos

If you reach out, follow the guidelines and attach only your CV and transcripts—no research statement is needed.

Read the email guidelines

02 // EMAIL GUIDELINES

Before you email

Briefly introduce yourself, explain your interest in the S2E Lab, use the subject format for your student type, and attach the materials listed below.

Ph.D.

Attach

CV · Transcripts · One-page statement explaining your research interests and how they align with the work done by the lab· Relevant test scores (e.g. TOEFL, GRE, etc), if applicable

Subject [Prospective PhD Student] Semester 20XX

Master’s

Attach

CV · Transcripts No research statement

Subject [Prospective MS Student] Semester 20XX

Undergraduate

Attach

CV · Transcripts No research statement

Subject [Prospective Undergraduate Student] Semester 20XX

For example, if you are a prospective PhD student interested in joining Fall 2027, your e-mail subject would be [Prospective PhD Student] Fall 2027.

Please note: Emailing does not replace the required Ph.D. or STRAND application. Because of the volume of inquiries, Prof. Santos may not be able to reply to every message; please do not send repeated reminders.

03 // HOW WE WORK

A lab built on trust, growth, and good communication.

Hands-on advising

Early in the Ph.D., expect close collaboration as you build research skills and confidence. With experience comes greater independence and ownership.

Weekly momentum

The group meets for weekly stand-ups to share progress, next steps, and blockers. Deeper conversations get the focused time they deserve.

Room to do your best work

You can expect candid, timely feedback; respect for your time; accessible communication; and committed support for your long-term goals.

How we show up

The habits and values that help our lab—and everyone in it—thrive.

SELF-MOTIVATIONDISCIPLINEINITIATIVECOMMUNICATIONKINDNESS

04 // READY?

Bring your questions.
Bring your ideas.

Follow the path for your student type to take the right next step.

Choose your path
Prof. Joanna Santos in a We Can Do It-inspired illustration with the message Together, we can do it