Research Fellow - Quantum Hacking and QKD Security Evaluation

About the role

Fraunhofer@NTU, an independent research centre at Nanyang Technological University, invites applications for a full-time Research Fellow focused on quantum hacking and quantum key distribution (QKD) security evaluation. The Fellow works in an interdisciplinary, international team of quantum security experts, QKD system engineers, optical physicists, quantum information theorists and cryptographic evaluation specialists, building and validating next-generation frameworks for testing, evaluating and certifying QKD systems and components in laboratory and production environments.

Key responsibilities

• Carry out advanced R&D on the practical security evaluation and side-channel resistant design of QKD and countermeasures for quantum cryptography implementations.
• Systematically analyse vulnerabilities and study side-channel exploitation of QKD.
• Develop and run characterization and metrology procedures for security-relevant parameters of QKD components and protocols.
• Implement and reproduce known and novel quantum hacking scenarios to assess QKD robustness.
• Build and test prototypes and proof-of-concept systems in physical testbeds.
• Design and implement hardware and software security evaluation instruments, including modular testbed architectures.
• Prepare technical reports, test procedures and datasets supporting standardization, certification and benchmarking.
• Translate research into tools, methodologies and frameworks for quantum security testing and certification, and publish in international conferences and journals.

Required profile

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering or Quantum Technology, with a focus on experimental quantum optics or quantum communication systems.
• At least four years of relevant experience.
• Strong foundation in QKD theory and protocols, especially Discrete Variable (DV-QKD), including implementation details and known attack vectors.
• Laboratory expertise in optical alignment, calibration and quantum component setup, ideally with prior experience implementing or reproducing attacks on QKD sources or single-photon detectors.
• Experience with microelectronics, fast signal processing, circuit design, FPGA-based control, real-time acquisition and hardware description languages (HDL).
• Strong analytical, independent problem-solving and project execution skills under tight deadlines, and excellent communication in a multidisciplinary, international team.
• Familiarity with the quantum technology policy and standardization landscape is an advantage.

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.