PhD positions in the field of “Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING AND COMPUTER ENGINEERINGAND INFORMATICS

Two (2) PhD positions in the field of “Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) at the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering and Informatics in the field of “Quantum Key Distribution”. Quantum key distribution (QKD) is the only technology that can provide unconditional security in communications. For this reason, the EU has requested, through the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) initiative, from all EU member states to implement local quantum networks. In Cyprus this will be implemented through the Cyprus Quantum Communication Infrastructure (CYQCI), to which the specific positions belong. For more information on the project, you can follow the website: https://cyqci.eu/index.html. The aim of the research will focus on the following:

• The development of a prototype optical fiber based QKD system 

• The implementation of national QKD links  
• The development of simulation codes for QKD systems 

Therefore, the research will include extensive work with optical fibers, lasers and electronics. 

Applicants should have: 

• Bachelor's or master's Degree from a recognized University in the relevant subjects (Physics/ Electronic or       Computing Engineering) 
• Experience with research projects from national and/or European funds will be considered an advantage 
• Organizational skills 
• Excellent knowledge of the English Language 
• Knowledge of Python or other programming languages would be a plus. 

• Experience in conducting research related to the subject will be considered an advantage 

The research activity will include:

• Development and deployment of new software defined network control for quantum networks.
  • Analysis, implementation, and contribution to published standards related to quantum key distribution network orchestration and control interfaces.
  • Development of application-level software to implement cryptographic functions based on quantum cryptography.
• Writing detailed documentation to describe the developed software.
  • Working closely with the rest of the team and demonstrating effective communication with other colleagues.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Funding: The successful candidate will be employed as a Postgraduate Associate in the Photonics and Optical Sensors research laboratory (PhOSLab) under the direction of Professor Kyriacos Kalli (kyriacos.kalli@cut.ac.cy).

Offer competitive financial support with exact salary level to be determined at interview.

Tuition will be covered according to performance per semester

Duration: 36 months

Start: January 1, 2024

Research Adviser: Kyriacos Kalli, Professor, (kyriacos.kalli@cut.ac.cy).

All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality at all times.

The CYQCI project is co-funded by the European Commission and the Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy under the Grant Agreement No. 101091655.