Research Scientist – Quantum Information Theory (Implementation Security)

Toshiba EMEA; Milton; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading quantum technology firm is seeking a Research Scientist for its Quantum Information Group in Milton, UK. The role involves developing security proofs for quantum cryptography systems and collaborating with experimentalists and system designers. Candidates should possess a PhD in a relevant field and experience with QKD simulators. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to innovative research in quantum secure communications with a team at the forefront of technological advancement.

Qualifications

• Familiarity with finite-size discrete-variable QKD security-proof techniques.
• Experience using QKD simulators to model protocol and system behaviour.
• Understanding of experimental QKD concepts and optical/photonic device behaviour.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine finite-size discrete-variable QKD security proofs.
• Use and extend QKD simulators to evaluate protocol performance under realistic conditions.
• Work closely with experimental and systems teams to ensure theoretical models reflect practical implementation details.

Skills

Familiarity with finite-size discrete-variable QKD security-proof techniques

Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment

Experience using QKD simulators

Understanding of experimental QKD concepts

Education

PhD in Physics, Electronic Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field

Tools

QKD simulators

Job description

Outline

Toshiba Europe Limited has been at the forefront of quantum communication for over a decade, pioneering technologies that set new standards in cryptography and data security. Our research underpins deployed Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems and continues to drive innovation in next‑generation quantum‑secure networking. This includes the development of new advanced protocols such as Twin‑Field QKD and entanglement‑based approaches, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in quantum‑secure communications.

We invite applications for the post of Research Scientist in the Quantum Information Group of the Cambridge Research Laboratory of Toshiba. The successful applicant will take responsibility for developing implementation‑aware security proofs for quantum cryptography systems, helping ensure that theoretical guarantees remain robust when real‑device behaviour and system‑level constraints are accounted for.

This is an opportunity to join a dynamic and world leading team, supported by one of the best‑known companies in digital electronics and services, in which you will collaborate closely with experimentalists, and system designers, contributing theoretical insight to modelling, system architecture, and protocol development.

Key Responsibilities

Security & Protocol Theory

• Develop and refine finite‑size discrete‑variable QKD security proofs.
• Incorporate experimentally characterised device behaviour into theoretical models.
• Analyse existing QKD protocols and propose improvements to performance and security.

Modelling & Simulation

• Use and extend QKD simulators to evaluate protocol performance under realistic conditions.
• Integrate experimental datasets to validate assumptions and improve modelling accuracy.
• Provide modelling‑driven input to system engineering decisions.

Collaboration & Contribution

• Work closely with experimental and systems teams to ensure theoretical models and security assumptions reflect practical implementation details.
• Contribute to joint research activities with academic and industrial partners.
• Write internal reports, co‑author scientific publications, and present work at conferences when appropriate.
• Contribute to efforts to develop global standards for quantum technologies.

Skills & Experience (Essential)

• PhD in Physics, Electronic Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field.
• Familiarity with finite‑size discrete‑variable QKD security‑proof techniques.
• Experience using QKD simulators to model protocol and system behaviour.
• Understanding of experimental QKD concepts and optical/photonic device behaviour.
• Evidence of research excellence through publications or equivalent results.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment.

Desirable Experience

• Experience working with data from optical or QKD systems.
• Participation in collaborative research projects or standards‑related work.