Protocol Lead
Job Description
Who We Are
Twine is building a next-generation multi-chain ZK Layer 2 (L2) platform focused on advanced cross-chain interoperability. Our team comprises globally distributed cryptographers, engineers, and blockchain enthusiasts driven by the mission to unlock trust-minimized transactions across different Layer 1 (L1) networks. We’ve secured backing from top VCs and prominent figures in the Web3 space, including Founders of Solana, Celestia, LayerZero, Sei, Nebra, Espresso, Gitcoin and prominent VCs (1kx, Robot Ventures) ensuring a strong foundation and network for our ambitious roadmap.
What We’re Doing
Our goal is to enable secure, scalable, and synchronous cross-chain transactions by leveraging ZK proof systems, sophisticated proof aggregation techniques, and distributed protocols. Twine aggregates security from multiple L1s without relying on traditional bridging or wrapped assets—offering developers a unified platform for building decentralized applications that interact across multiple blockchains seamlessly. We integrate cutting-edge proving systems like GKR along with top performing general purpose ZK VMs (SP1 ZKVM from Succinct, Risc0) and other modern cryptographic frameworks to scale and secure multi-chain interactions.
What You’ll Do
- Design & Architect Protocols Lead and shape Twine’s core protocol with an emphasis on ZK and distributed technologies. Ensure that modularity, scalability, and security remain cornerstones of our architecture.
- ZK & L2 Leadership Research, prototype, and pioneer the integration of advanced zero-knowledge techniques (e.g., GKR, PCD and others) and next-gen rollup architectures into Twine’s multi-chain platform.
- Hands-On Rust Development Develop high-performance Rust code for cryptographic proof generation, verification, and protocol logic—emphasizing concurrency, memory safety, and optimized cryptographic operations.
- Distributed Protocols & Cryptography Spearhead the development and refinement of distributed protocols, ensuring fault-tolerant design that can scale across multiple chains and adversarial conditions.
- Mentorship & Collaboration Drive technical excellence by mentoring engineers and cryptographers, conducting thorough code reviews, and standardizing best practices for testing and security.
- Security & Audits Define security best practices, coordinate formal audits, and manage vulnerability assessments for core protocol components.
⠀ What We’re Looking For
- Expert Rust Skills Demonstrable command of Rust for systems programming, particularly in performance-critical cryptographic routines and distributed systems.
- ZK Cryptography Experience Hands-on experience with zero-knowledge protocols and familiarity with foundational and advanced concepts.
- Distributed Protocols Knowledge Proven experience designing and deploying distributed protocols, consensus mechanisms, or P2P networks in production environments.
- Systems & Architecture Strong background in architecting resilient, scalable systems and writing high-quality code for mission-critical applications.
- Leadership & Communication Adept at leading technical discussions, explaining cryptographic and distributed systems concepts to diverse audiences, and collaborating across a global team.
- Security Mindset Deep understanding of secure coding practices, formal verification methodologies, and protocol design principles.
- Adaptability & Autonomy Comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment, taking initiative, and delivering impactful results.
⠀ Why Twine
- High-Impact Role Help define the future of cross-chain L2 solutions, combining groundbreaking cryptographic research and real-world use cases.
- Cutting-Edge Tech Work at the forefront of ZK innovation and shape the multi-chain infrastructure that powers tomorrow’s decentralized applications.
- Remote-First Culture Join a distributed team with the flexibility to work from anywhere in the world.
- Tier 1 Backing Benefit from access to top-tier investors, advisors, and prominent Web3 figures who support our mission and growth.
- Collaborative Environment Engage in a mission-driven team that values curiosity, creativity, and teamwork—where your contributions directly drive innovation.
If this resonates with you and you’re excited about shaping the future of ZK-powered, trust-minimized cross-chain solutions, we want to hear from you.