PostDoc for Quantum Safe Communications Systems and Networks

at  TU Eindhoven

THE POSITION

We are looking for a qualified -doctoral researcher to contribute to the design, deployment and operation of the quantum safe communications testbed. The activities include the design and analysis of quantum safe communication networks and their components as well as the design and implementation of relevant software components and network protocols. The candidate is further expected to contribute to the security analysis of quantum key distribution systems and networks. You will join a highly dynamic team that has established a functioning network for quantum safe communications, including quantum and classical communications equipment from a variety of vendors and has adapted a number of network protocols to make use of quantum key material for improved security. You will play a leading role in designing secure systems, performing security analysis and testing relevant QKD and network components. The candidate will further have the chance to contribute to the supervision of PhD students working on a range of topics related to quantum safe communications and may contribute to the educational offering of TU/e in this field. The candidate will interact with research and industrial partners to drive the deployment and adoption of QKD systems and the establishment and evaluation of use cases for QKD as well as its standardization.

The position includes a number of activities, duties and responsibilities including:

• Develops design and architectures for quantum safe networks and systems.
• Performs security analysis of quantum key distribution equipment, key management systems and network control and operation platforms.
• Leads the security analysis and use case development for the quantum safe communications testbed.
• Designs and implements security-focused network operation tools and platforms and develops network management paradigms for secure quantum communication networks.
• Writes and analyses test plans, executes tests and evaluates test results for performance and security tests of QKD equipment and the quantum safe communications network.
• Support the establishment, development, and operations of the testbed for quantum secure communications and networking.
• Provides and maintains accurate project plans. Manages and/or leads security analysis and use case demonstration projects of moderate complexity.

The position forms part of the QCINed project which – together with a number of national partners – aims to establish the basis for a national (and in the future European) quantum communications infrastructure. You will join the Electro-Optical Communications group within the Department of Electrical Engineering and will be embedded with the team developing and deploying the quantum safe communications testbed. You will work in the facilities of the quantum photonic systems and networking laboratories. You will work with the deployed network of the quantum safe communications testbed and actively collaborate with the industrial and academic partners in the QCINed project and QDNL programme.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

We seek a talented, motivated, and enthusiastic researcher or network engineer. Analytical skills, initiative and creativity are highly desired.

• A PhD in Telecommunications, Computer Science, Cybersecurity or Cryptology with an excellent academic record
• Experience and a strong background in one or multiple of the following subjects (with typically 2+ years of combined experience):
• Security of telecommunication networks
• Cybersecurity and secure networking protocols
• Cryptography and security analysis
• Classical and quantum cybersecurity systems
• Preparation of security test setups and analysis of test results
• Operation of security critical communication networks
• Fluent in written and spoken English
• Working knowledge of current cryptographic algorithms, public key infrastructure and network protocols.
• Ability to learn new skills and assume new responsibilities.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.
• Desire and affinity to work in an academic research lab with PhDs, Postdocs and MSc students.

ABOUT US

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow.

• Develops design and architectures for quantum safe networks and systems.
• Performs security analysis of quantum key distribution equipment, key management systems and network control and operation platforms.
• Leads the security analysis and use case development for the quantum safe communications testbed.
• Designs and implements security-focused network operation tools and platforms and develops network management paradigms for secure quantum communication networks.
• Writes and analyses test plans, executes tests and evaluates test results for performance and security tests of QKD equipment and the quantum safe communications network.
• Support the establishment, development, and operations of the testbed for quantum secure communications and networking.
• Provides and maintains accurate project plans. Manages and/or leads security analysis and use case demonstration projects of moderate complexity