Quantum communication via low-orbit satellites offers up a paradigm shift in telecommunications. Providing for unparalleled communication security, this emerging technology will also lead us into the development of the global quantum internet. In this project you will leverage optical quantum communications, quantum error correction, and channel modelling, to deliver novel and optimized quantum communication protocols specifically designed for the satellite-to-ground and inter-satellite channels. The work is expected to lead to state-of-the-art quantum communication protocols that optimize quantum communication throughput over very large distances.

Investigations into Quantum communications via satellite offers students the opportunity to enter an exciting and emerging technology frontier that is positioned at the interface of advanced quantum physics and satellite-based communications. This PhD scholarship is partially sponsored by Northrop Grumman, one of the world’s leading Aerospace Companies. Technical specialists from Northrop Grumman form part of the research team. One trip per year to the US to visit Northrop Grumman is anticipated, and travel funds to attend international conferences will also be provided. This scholarship is open to both domestic and international candidates.

To be competitive for this scholarship you should expect to hold the equivalent of a University of New South Wales (UNSW) first-class honours undergraduate degree in Engineering or Physics prior to commencement of the scholarship. At most universities this is equivalent to an 85% grade average. The scholarship stipend is anticipated to be approximately 28,000 (AUD) per year for the duration of the 3.5 year PhD. An additional top-up stipend of approximately 7,000 (AUD) per year through the Sydney Quantum Academy may be available to successful candidates. A Tuition Fee Scholarship (TFS) will be provided by UNSW to successful international candidates. The deadline for applications is 31st January 2020.

For further information and details on how to apply please see http://www2.ee.unsw.edu.au/temp/qkd.htm

For other information not listed please contact Professor Robert Malaney at r.malaney@unsw.edu.au