Fully-Funded PhD: Long-distance continuous variable quantum key distribution with amplifiers and memories

Entanglement distribution is a foundational capability for quantum networks, enabling diverse quantum technologies including—but not limited to—quantum key distribution (QKD). QKD provides information-theoretic security even against quantum-capable adversaries, making it one of the most mature and commercially relevant applications of quantum communication. 

However, current QKD links are limited to short distances. Overcoming this limitation requires quantum repeaters, which enable long-distance entanglement distribution and are therefore essential for building large-scale, secure quantum networks. Developing efficient, scalable, and physically realizable repeater-assisted architectures for entanglement distribution protocols remains a significant theoretical and practical challenge.

This PhD project will investigate optical quantum repeaters for long-distance secure QKD. You will develop theoretical frameworks to analyse repeater architectures, evaluating both amplifier-enhanced and memory-assisted protocols. Crucially, you will develop experiment-ready models that rigorously account for realistic device imperfections—bridging the gap between theory and practical implementation. 

Project aims and objectives

• Develop a generalised theoretical framework for quantum repeater architectures
• Investigate and compare specific QKD protocols; Model realistic device imperfections by incorporating loss, noise, and other experimental constraints into the theoretical analysis
• Provide design guidelines for future experimental implementations of quantum repeater networks, specifying hardware requirements and performance benchmarks
• Contribute to the development of large-scale quantum communication infrastructure by identifying viable pathways for practical deployment of secure quantum networks.