Ready to build the future of secure communications in Europe? 🇪🇺🔒 We’re hiring!
The Institute of Physics at the Slovak Academy of Sciences (IP SAS) is looking for a talented Research Engineer to join our experimental Quantum Communication and Sensing group in Bratislava. You’ll play a crucial role in a groundbreaking project: the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI).
This is a unique engineering position at the heart of a quantum physics research environment. Forget the blackboard equations—your mission will be to build the robust, secure software and network infrastructure that makes quantum communication a reality. No background in physics or quantum mechanics is required!We’re looking for a top-notch software and security expert.
What you’ll do 💻
As a key member of our team, you will focus on the practical software and security challenges of building a pan-European quantum network. Your core responsibilities will include:
- Designing and implementing software for Key Management Systems (KMS) that interface with Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) hardware.
- Developing and managing Software-Defined Networking (SDN) solutions to control and orchestrate the quantum communication network.
- Ensuring the classical data security of the entire infrastructure, implementing state-of-the-art encryption methods and security protocols.
- Working with security standards and certification processes for network hardware and software components.
- Integrating and testing new telecommunication hardware and software within the EuroQCI testbed.
What you’ll bring 🛠️
We’re looking for a hands-on engineer with a strong foundation in telecommunications and cybersecurity.
Essential Skills:
- Strong programming proficiency, particularly in languages like Python or C++, for telecommunication and network tasks.
- Deep knowledge of data security principles for digital networks, including symmetric/asymmetric encryption, Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), and authentication protocols.
- Proven experience with network security standards and best practices (e.g., familiarity with NIST standards, ISO/IEC 27001).
- A collaborative mindset and a passion for solving complex engineering problems.
- A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Telecommunications Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
Bonus Points (Nice to have, but not required):
- Experience with photonics for classical telecommunications (e.g., optical fiber networks, WDM/DWDM, optical switches, AWGs).
- Familiarity with network hardware and its certification processes.
Why join us ✨
- Pioneering Project: Be at the forefront of building the next generation of secure communication infrastructure in Europe.
- Unique Environment: Gain unparalleled experience by applying your software and security skills in a cutting-edge quantum research setting.
- Impactful Work: Contribute directly to a strategic European project with real-world applications in cybersecurity for government, industry, and society.
- Collaborative Team: Join a dynamic, international research group at one of Slovakia’s premier scientific institutions.
Salary 💰
The starting annual gross salary for this position ranges from €33,000 to €40,000, commensurate with your skills and experience.
How to apply ✍️
Ready for the challenge? Send your CV and a brief cover letter explaining your motivation to djeylan.aktas@savba.sk with the subject line “Research Engineer – EuroQCI”.
We are looking forward to your application! Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.