Theoretical PhD project on quantum communication and quantum information

The Quantum Communications Hub is a partnership of eight universities and numerous private sector companies (www.quantumcommshub.net) that have formed a collaboration with the overall aim of developing a range of new secure quantum communications technologies. A PhD studentship, supported by EPSRC funding through Heriot-Watt University, is available to work on quantum communications as part of The Quantum Communications Hub, based at Heriot-Watt’s campus in Edinburgh.

The student will work in Heriot-Watt’s quantum information theory group, led by Professor Erika Andersson. The PhD will involve work on quantum signatures, quantum measurements, and other topics in quantum communication. Previously, the group has introduced various practical ways of realising quantum signatures, and examined the security of these protocols. We have also worked e.g. on measurement-device independent quantum signatures, on quantum oblivious transfer, and on the use of different types of quantum amplifiers and quantum measurements for quantum communication. Experiments related to quantum signatures and quantum communication are also performed at Heriot-Watt, and there are excellent opportunities to work with experimentalists at Heriot-Watt and elsewhere.

The student will be involved in a wide range of research activities associated with the Quantum Communications Hub and gain experience and training in the fast-growing area of highly secure communications. The work will be primarily theoretical, but opportunities to contribute to experimental work may exist, depending on the ability and interests of the successful applicant.

The student will join a team with excellent links with other major universities in the field in the UK and internationally. Within the Hub, there are links to universities such as Bristol and Strathclyde, as well as the other Hub partners, such as Toshiba and The National Physical Laboratory. Other international collaborators include major international research institutions such as the Japanese National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT). A willingness and ability to travel globally would be an advantage.

Interest in quantum information, excellent mathematical and theoretical skills, as well as interest and knowledge of quantum mechanics are essential for the role. An excellent Masters degree in physics or a related mathematical discipline (for UK applicants, 1st class) is also essential.

Funding Notes

Eligibility: UK and EU students. View Website

Funding: 3.5 years tuition fees plus stipend (£14,553 for 2017/18) for UK resident students. Students from EU countries other than the UK are generally eligible for a fees-only award. Academic entry requirements: a 1st class MSc or MPhys degree in Physics or related Mathematical discipline.

References

This PhD project, funded by EPSRC, is available up to an October 2017 start. Please contact Professor Erika Andersson for more information (E.Andersson@hw.ac.uk)