PhD position DC12: Development of optical systems for free-space QKD.

Technology » Telecommunications technology Technology » Space technology Organisation/Company: Thinkquantum srl Department: R&D Research Field: Engineering » Electrical engineering, Engineering » Communication engineering, Technology » Telecommunications technology, Technology » Space technology, Physics » Optics Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions, PhD Positions Country: Italy Application Deadline: 31 Jan 2025 - 23:59 (Europe/Rome) Type of Contract: Temporary Job Status: Full-time Hours Per Week: 40 Offer Starting Date: 1 Mar 2025 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon Europe - MSCA Reference Number: 101169042 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description This fully funded position is available under the recently launched Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action (MSCA) Doctoral Networks (DN) project "FOCAL" (Free-space Optical Communications for Aerial-satellite networks). The researcher will be employed by ThinkQuantum srl and will be enrolled in the PhD program at the University of Padova, Department of Information Engineering. PhD position DC12: Development of optical systems for free-space QKD. Objectives: Study and development of high-performance ground optical systems for QKD and classical communication over free-space channels; Investigating different trade-offs and solutions based on wavelengths and detector technologies (SPAD, SNSPD, InGaAs), coupling techniques (free-space, multimode, single-mode), encodings (discrete-variable, as polarization and/or time-bin), protocols and requirements (e.g., portability); Development of AO and filtering techniques (temporal, spectral, and spatial) to optimise QKD operativity in different conditions (e.g., night-time and daylight operations). PhD supervision: Department of Information Engineering, University of Padova, Italy ThinkQuantum srl General description of the "FOCAL" MSCA DN Project: With currently 3 billion people lacking access to broadband internet worldwide, European operators are struggling to fill the white areas with insufficient or nonexistent connectivity. In light of the early promises of 6G wireless networks, it is tempting to consider non-terrestrial networks as complementary to the ground-based radio and fiber infrastructure. However, radio frequency-based satellite systems are nearing their capacity limits and cannot be scaled further. Free-space optical technology is a natural alternative to deliver greater capacity and to better address data security needs by leveraging quantum key distribution. The first optical intersatellite links are being deployed in commercial networks at relatively low data rate (10 Gbps). However, once the most important remaining research challenges are resolved, they could rapidly expand and serve as a catalyst for the development of a new communication backbone in the sky, consisting of aerial and space optical nodes at different altitudes. The overarching aim of the FOCAL project is to train a new generation of highly qualified doctoral candidates in developing innovative aerial and space optical wireless technologies that will provide future telecommunication networks with ubiquitous connectivity, resilience, and quantum-proof security. In addition to contributing to the fundamental understanding and technical know-how of such networks through co-supervised individual research projects, FOCAL will train talented and innovative researchers with multidisciplinary expertise and skills that are desirable in this European industrial sector. This will be achieved through a combination of theoretical and hands-on research training provided by a unique consortium of 16 academic and 10 industrial partners from 8 countries, resulting in collaborative research including co-supervision and secondments, as well as transferable training skills, which is necessary for prosperous careers in this prominent R&I area. More information on the project can be found on the following URL: Research Field: Technology » Telecommunications technology Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent Specific Requirements The candidates must have a MSc (or an equivalent) degree in physics, electrical, electronics, telecommunications, or photonics engineering. The candidate must have a very good English language proficiency (oral and written expression) and be keen for short-term stays ("secondments") in partner institutions. Knowledge of the Italian language is not required. In addition, the following qualifications will be highly appreciated: Optical Design experience Knowledge of software for optical design (e.g., Zeemax). Languages: ENGLISH Level Excellent Additional Information The enrollments of the Doctoral Candidates (DCs) are under very attractive employment conditions and competitive salaries offered in Marie-Curie Doctoral Networks. Eligibility criteria Candidates must also meet the following criteria: Be of any nationality, but must not have resided or carried out main activity in Italy for more than 12 months in the last 36 months; Have not yet been awarded a PhD degree. All interested candidates irrespective of age, nationality, gender, race, disability, religion, or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. Master [alternatively, the expected graduation date of Master degree] and Bachelor diplomas (in a single PDF file) Master and Bachelor grades’ transcripts (in a single PDF file) Motivation letter (limited to 500 words) The name and contact information of two references or two recommendation letters (in a single PDF file). Please note, the starting date of the position is flexible. The applicants must also fill the application form following the URL below: Number of offers available: 1 Company/Institute: Department of Information Engineering, University of Padova Country: Italy City: Padova Postal Code: 35131 Street: Via Gradenigo 6/B J-18808-Ljbffr

Location: it, IT

Posted Date: 1/12/2025