STIQUAC
Self-Testing In QUAntum Cryptography

Positions available:
1 postdoc and 2 PhD student positions are available in this project.

Project Scope:
Cybersecurity is one of the most important challenges currently before both government organizations and private enterprises. One of the most important aspects of this problem is the inability to trust suppliers of equipment used for encryption. Simple change of the dopant levels in a few transistors of a microprocessor makes it trivial for the person who made this change to decode every message encrypted using this device. Such a modification is virtually impossible to detect, and it is only one of many, well-known methods of introducing backdoors to encryption devices. One way out of this situation is the full control over the production process - from the design phase to manufacture of every part of each component. Such a solution is a big challenge for large government agencies and for private companies is virtually impossible.

A solution comes from quantum mechanics. It turns out that it is possible to build a machine which self-tests itself continuously while operating. If such a device would attempt to encrypt data in a not secure way and, at the same time pass the test, it would have to break the laws of quantum mechanics. Another advantage of self-testing devices is that the machine is that the constant monitoring of its efficiency, not only prevents the placement of backdoors, but also immediately detects any malfunction and informs the user. This makes the self-testing devices, by definition, infallible! The aim of the project is to build prototypes of such devices. The prototypes will be designed to be simple and cheap to make their purchase and operation within the capabilities of small and medium-sized companies. It will provide them with a level of data security comparable with the one that currently is available only to intelligence agencies. Wide access to cheap, super-secure and reliable cryptographic systems can greatly reduce cybercrime and help the economy on a global scale. Less immediate goal of the project is the overall development of quantum technologies.

We offer good salaries and possibility to work on a wide range of topics. To apply send your CV and a short description of scientific intrests to [email protected] Any inquiries should be directed to the same address.

Application deadline 18 November 2016. An interview with the candidates will be held on 21 November 2016.