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Join Our Mission to Advance Trusted Quantum Communication

At Quantum Technology Laboratories GmbH (qtlabs), we are developing next-generation quantum communication technologies for space applications. Our work combines quantum optics, cryptography, and advanced engineering to create practical systems for secure communication in the quantum era.

Based in Vienna, our team brings together experts in quantum key distribution (QKD), optical communication, and security-critical technologies. We are now looking for a Senior Quantum Cryptography Expert to strengthen our expertise in the theoretical foundations of QKD security and the formulation of rigorous security proofs for real-world implementations.

Quantum Technology Laboratories GmbH is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

The Role

As a Senior Quantum Cryptography Expert, you will take a leading role in the development, analysis, and adaptation of security proofs for practical QKD systems.

Your work will focus on understanding implementation details, identifying the relevant assumptions and threat models, and translating these into rigorous security statements using modern proof techniques. You will work across a broad range of discrete-variable QKD protocols, including both prepare-and-measure and entanglement-based schemes.

This position is ideal for a scientist who is deeply familiar with the current state of the art in QKD security proofs, can work independently across different proof approaches, and is comfortable conducting original research when new questions arise.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and adapt security proofs for practical implementations of QKD systems.
  • Analyse implementation details, assumptions, and imperfections, and map them into appropriate proof models and security statements.
  • Follow and evaluate the current state of the art in QKD security proof techniques, including advances in the literature.
  • Work on security analyses for both prepare-and-measure and entanglement-based QKD protocols.
  • Independently identify suitable proof strategies for new protocol variants, implementation settings, or certification-driven questions.
  • Contribute to internal research and, where appropriate, to scientific publications in the field of QKD security.
  • Collaborate closely with colleagues working on theory, implementation, and secure-key-rate analysis.
  • Support the translation of proof assumptions and conclusions into forms usable for system development, security evaluation, and technical documentation.
  • Help shape the company’s long-term expertise in QKD security theory and implementation-aware security analysis.

Your Profile

Required Qualifications

  • Strong expertise in QKD security proofs and quantum cryptography.
  • Demonstrated ability to understand and formulate security proofs for practical QKD implementations.
  • Strong familiarity with a broad range of proof techniques.
  • Experience working with prepare-and-measure and/or entanglement-based QKD protocols.
  • Ability to work independently on technically demanding research questions and develop solutions with limited supervision.
  • Strong understanding of the scientific literature and current developments in QKD security proof methods.
  • Scientific publication record in QKD, quantum cryptography, or a closely related area.
  • Excellent analytical and conceptual skills, with the ability to connect abstract proof techniques to concrete physical systems.

Nice to Have

  • Experience with numerical security proof techniques.
  • Experience bridging theoretical proof work with experimental or engineering constraints.
  • Knowledge of certification-relevant or high-assurance security analysis contexts.
  • Interest in contributing to longer-term research directions beyond immediate project needs.

 

What We Offer

  • A collaborative and innovative environment in Vienna, a global hub for quantum research and advanced technology.
  • The opportunity to work on cutting-edge problems in quantum cryptography and secure communication.
  • A role with real scientific depth and the possibility to influence both research direction and practical technology development.
  • The chance to contribute to and help shape a rapidly growing company.
  • Flexible work arrangements in a hybrid model combining remote and onsite collaboration.
  • The opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of quantum technologies.
  • Balanced work-life integration for our employees.
  • Attractive workplace with excellent infrastructure at Wienerberg.
  • Great Italian espresso.
  • Humorous and friendly work atmosphere.

The gross annual salary for this position is approximately €90,000.00, with the final offer depending on your qualifications and experience. The legally required minimum salary (collective agreement) is €3,599.52 brutto per month.

Quantum Technology Laboratories GmbH is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees!

Apply now and help shape the future of secure global communication.