PhD Candidate in Free Space QKD

About the SnT

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT) at the University of Luxembourg is a leading international research and innovation centre in secure, reliable and trustworthy ICT systems and services.
We play an instrumental role in Europe by fueling innovation through research partnerships with industry, boosting R&D investments leading to economic growth, and attracting highly qualified talent. We look for researchers from diverse academic backgrounds to contribute to our projects in areas such as: Network Security, Information Assurance, Model-driven Security, Cloud Computing, Cryptography, Satellite Systems, Vehicular Networks, and ICT Services & Applications.

Your role

The successful candidate will join the SIGCOM Research Group, led by Prof. Symeon Chatzinotas.

This PhD project aims to carry out research on the free space QKD systems by using structured lights. It will include turbulence modeling. Moreover, the structured light generation and analysis with free space QKD will be performed. The effect of turbulence and structured lights on the key performance indicators, such as key rate and quantum bit error rate, will be researched.

The position holder will be required to perform the following tasks:

• Carrying out research in the predefined areas
• Disseminating results through scientific publications
• Communicate and interact with the partner's team to collect requirements and report results
• Implement and open-source proof-of-concept software tools
• Collaborate with other researchers of the program

For further information, please contact Dr. Mert Bayraktar -

Your profile

Qualification: The candidate should possess a MSc. Degree or equivalent in Engineering, Physics, or related fields.

Experience: The ideal candidate should have some knowledge and experience in a number of the following topics:

• Structured lights generation and analysis
• Optical wave propagation through turbulence
• Free space and fiber based continuous/discrete wave (CV/DV) quantum key distribution(QKD)
• Implement and open-source proof-of-concept software tools

Strong analytical and programming skills are required (Python, Matlab, and C/C++). Prior proven experience in data-driven innovation projects is an asset as well as having prior research publications in high-ranking journals or in international conference proceedings. Most importantly, you should be curiosity driven and willing to constantly learn new things!

Language Skills: Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English are required.

We offer

• Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the "University of the Greater Region" (UniGR)
• A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Full CV, including:
  • For each degree received or currently enrolled in, the degree, institution name, city, and country, and date (or expected date) of graduation
  • Title and short summary of final thesis
  • List of publications (if any)
  • Name, affiliation, and contact details of at least two recommenders
  • If available, link to GitHub repository including completed open-source projects
• Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken
• Cover letter with motivations and topics of particular interest to the candidate (500 words)
  
  

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 36 Month
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Kirchberg Campus
• Internal Title: Doctoral Researcher
• Job Reference: UOL06914

The yearly gross salary for every PhD at the UL is EUR 40952 (full time).