The groups of Cryptology and Quantum Information (Alexander May and Michael Walter) at Ruhr University Bochum are looking for an excellent candidate for a fully funded Ph.D. position as part of Quantum-Safe Internet (QSI), a Marie Curie Innovative Training Network (MSCA-ITN). The QSI network involves top-ranking partner universities from France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Spain, the UK, and Switzerland, as well as industrial partners. At Bochum, you can expect an excellent research environment, including the Center of Excellence CASA and the Max-Planck Institute for Security and Privacy.

You will conduct research in algorithms for classical and quantum cryptanalysis and publish/present the results at top venues for research in classical and quantum cryptography and IT Security. You will be jointly supervised by Alexander May and Michael Walter.

Your profile:

• Master’s degree or equivalent in computer science, mathematics, theoretical physics, or a related field.
• Outstanding grades in classes related to cryptography, (quantum) algorithms, theoretical CS, or mathematics. (Familiarity with provable security and/or a strong mathematical background are a plus.)
• Excellent communication/writing skills in English. (No German required.)
• Compliance with the MSCA-ITN mobility rule: You must not have resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Germany for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before your recruitment date.

We offer:

• Full-time employment for the duration of the PhD (four years at Ruhr-University Bochum).
• A well-rounded training offered by the QSI network, covering a range of topics related to secure communications in the quantum era, as well as complementary training intended to enhance your personal development.
• Generous travel budget that allows for, e.g., exposure to different sectors via planned placements and attendance of summer schools.

The position is to be filled as soon as possible. We strongly encourage applications from members of any underrepresented group in our research area.

To apply or for questions, contact alex.may@rub.de.

Applications should contain the following in a single PDF:

• Cover letter describing your background and research interests
• CV, including transcripts
• Contact details of 2-3 potential references
• A link to your MSc thesis (draft), if available

Deadline for application: Sep 28, 2022.