PhD in post-quantum cryptography

Departments, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science Introduction

We are looking for a PhD student to help us develop practical cryptography for the post‑quantum era. This (fully funded) PhD studentship focuses on provable security.

You will develop the next generation of post‑quantum cryptographic schemes that are designed with implementation security in mind from the outset. Your research will combine cryptographic design with formal security analysis, helping to bridge the gap between theoretical security and secure real‑world implementations.

You will be supervised by K. Hövelmanns, co‑supervised by

A. Hülsing.

• Being part of a multidisciplinary team that works at the intersection of post‑quantum cryptography, provable security, and implementation security.
• Close collaboration with researchers working on side‑channel attacks and secure implementations.
• Weekly supervision meetings to help you stay on track.
• Guidance on writing, presentation, and career development.
• A shared interest in producing high‑quality research results.

• An interest in the design and formal security analysis of cryptographic protocols, and motivation to lead the projects.
• A master’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or related subjects.
• A solid background in cryptography, algorithms, discrete mathematics, or a related area.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills demonstrated in previous projects.
• Research experience in the related areas is a plus but not required.
• Good programming skills (e.g. in C/C++, Rust or Python) are also a plus.

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full‑time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four‑year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• A year‑end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High‑quality training programs and other support to grow into a self‑aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on‑campus children’s day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.