Jr. Researcher – Quantum Security for Internet and Satellite Communications

The Space Communications Research Group is investigating in applying quantum communications technologies to satellites. One of the more promising and mature technology is the quantum key distribution (QKD), which promises fully secured communications thanks to the secure distribution of cryptographic keys with mechanisms based on the laws of quantum mechanics.

The open position is focused on the integration of QKD on current security mechanisms and protocols typically used on Internet communications, the network aspects involved in the interconnection of QKD nodes and also taking into account the role of satellites to develop a global QKD Network.

The tasks you will be involved with would include:

• Revision and analysis of the state of the art of quantum communications and QKD protocols
• Revision of the standards defined in the ETSI GS QKD and ITU-T Y.3800 in relation with QKD and the development of QKD Networks
• Contribute to design and modelling of QKD network
• Programming of test scenarios, primarily in C, C++ in Linux-based environments
• Programming of simulation of quantum key generation (QKD nodes), network / interconnection aspects of different QKD nodes, and also consideration of the key management layer
• Integration of the QKD simulated parts with applications based on Internet Security Protocols (SSL/TLS, IPSec, …) and other security mechanisms based on pre-shared keys
• Integration of QKD with cryptography libraries, such as OpenSSL

Who we are:

The i2CAT Foundation is a non-profit research and innovation center that promotes mission-driven R&D activities on advanced Internet architectures, applications, and services. More than 15 years of international research define our expertise in the fields of 5G, IoT, VR, and Immersive Technologies, Cybersecurity, Blockchain, AI, and Digital Social Innovation. The center partners with companies, public administration, academia, and end-users to leverage this knowledge in order to meet real social and business challenges.

The greatest value of i2CAT is the talent of the people who make up our human team. We enjoy a team of people from more than 13 different nationalities and work every day to create and foster a work environment where we all feel comfortable creating, innovating and growing.

Want to know more? Visit our webpage! www.i2cat.net

What do we offer?

• Work from our offices or from home, whichever works best for you. We ask for two days in person at the office to coordinate with the rest of the team.
• This is a full-time vacancy
• We have a flexible work schedule respecting your work-life balance
• Reduced working hours on Fridays and in July and August
• Fix + variable salary
• Optional benefits: Travel pass, restaurant vouchers, nursery services support, medical insurance
• Annual leave of 25 working days (the usual 22 + 3 additional ones)
• Discount for the UPC gym
• We have fruit in the office to promote a healthy lifestyle
• If you are interested, you can participate in events of your sector.
• You will work with a laptop. You can choose your operative system, Mac, Linux or Windows.
• You can develop your own and personal training programme with our support
• We will work so that you have a career plan to promote your growth and development.

Where will you do it?

At i2CAT we already have an established ‘work-from-home’ policy for some time. You can work from home or from the office, whichever suits you best. We expect that you attend the office two days per week: one to stay connected with your team and another one to engage with other colleagues

If you decide to come to the office, we are located in Zona Universitària, next to the Campus Nord of the UPC, within a multidisciplinary and multicultural environment. It is a very well-connected area (metro, tram, bus) with bars and restaurants around.

Our offices are designed with an open-office concept where everything is light and transparency. We have a variety of workspaces so that you don't have to be at the same table all day.

i2CAT is an organization committed to equal opportunities. That is why we seek to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented, and therefore explicitly encourage female candidates to apply.

I2CAT is an organization committed to creating an environment where we celebrate diversity, and where we provide the dedicated support that our employees need, regardless of their disability.

If what you have read sounds good to you... let’s have a coffee and we will tell you more!

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