Doctoral Researcher - Post-Quantum Cryptography

About us

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 APSIA Group (Applied Security and Information Assurance), led by Dr. Peter B. Roenne. The APSIA group has a strong research record on the design, analysis, modelling and implementation of security protocols with classical, post-quantum, and quantum cryptography. For further information, you may refer to https://www.uni.lu/snt-en/research-groups/apsia.

The candidate will pursue a doctorate in computer science with a focus on the migration to Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) while collaborating with the Ministry for Digitalization in Luxembourg on a joint project. The project aims to provide guidance on the transformation of applications relying on classical cryptography, prone to attacks from quantum computers, to post-quantum cryptography. Key challenges are secure implementations of PQC, their integration into protocols, defining and proving security, ensuring cryptoagility as well as understanding the problems facing institutions and companies in this migration.

In general, the candidate will perform the following tasks:

• Carry out research in areas relevant to PQC, such as:
• Designing and Implementing novel PQC protocols
• Evaluating and proving security against quantum-capable attackers
• Benchmarking PQC techniques with respect time and energy-consumption
• Researching obstacles and guidance in the PQC migration
• Disseminate results through scientific publications in leading outlets at the intersection of privacy, information systems, and computer science
• Support the conceptualization and writing of research proposals to attract industry partnerships and secure national and European grants
• Conduct research projects and and deliver project outcomes in collaboration with academic and public sector partners

For further information, please contact Peter B. Roenne ().

Your profile

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Data Science, Information Systems (Engineering), Mathematics, or related fields with robust mathematical expertise
• Strong programming skills in at least one major programming language
• Good presentation and teamworking skills
• A collaborative team player with a desire to make a personal impact within our interdisciplinary research group 
• The commitment to participate in the design and implementation of high-quality solutions that solve significant problems 
• Self-initiative, creativity, curiosity, flexibility and enthusiasm to work 

Language Requiremets:

Applicants must demonstrate at least B2-level proficiency in the language of their thesis. For details and accepted certificates, please visit the Application for admission - Doctoral Candidates.

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:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter presenting your motivation for this doctoral thesis topic, and explaining how your qualifications and aspirations align with its academic focus
• Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken

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 - extendable up to 48 months if required
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Kirchberg Campus
• Internal Title: Doctoral Researcher
• Job Reference: UOL07828

The yearly gross salary for every PhD at the UL is EUR 41976 (full time).