Large Language Models Intern

The Cybersecurity Foundations team performs research in secure development processes, including the development of coding rules to minimize risk and program analysis tools to evaluate the security of software. Fundamental to this work is analysis of how programs have been constructed in the field. The intern will work with SEI staff with research in this area.

The specific project is to extend the research on the use of Large Language Models (LLMs) for evaluating the security of source code. Current research has focused on using OpenAI’s technology (ChatGPT, CoPilot) to evaluate potential false negatives in vulnerable C programs (i.e., incorrectly concluding that vulnerable programs are secure - https://insights.sei.cmu.edu/blog/using-chatgpt-to-analyze-your-code-not-so-fast/ ). The research could expand into other languages, other LLMs, evaluation of false positives, the effect of prompt engineering or other experiments. The exact experiment will depend on the background and skills of the intern.

Requirements:

• Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate degree granting program.

• Able to work an internship schedule during the summer semester.

• Able to come onsite to the SEI Pittsburgh office.

• Candidates will be subject to a background check.

• Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity.

Relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities include:

• At least 3 semesters of courses requiring substantial programming

• Familiarity using systems like ChatGPT to evaluate or generate code

Ideal candidate would also have:

• Taken a secure coding course in any language (or had equivalent training).

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Non-CMU Students

Position Type

Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Hourly

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