At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge project developing eavesdropper detection systems for optical communications.
- Company: Prestigious University in Oxford with a focus on innovative research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, access to advanced resources, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on innovation and interdisciplinary teamwork.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the field of communications security while advancing your research career.
- Qualifications: PhD in communications engineering and experience in optical fibre technology required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are seeking a full‑time Post Doctoral Researcher to join the Communications research group at the Department of Engineering Science (central Oxford). The post is funded by a University Challenge Seed Fund grant and is fixed‑term to 29 March 2028. The Secure Encryption Key Exchange (SEKE) project is aimed at developing an eavesdropper detection system based on noise statistics for optical communication links. This builds on a similar system demonstrator for RF links.
Responsibilities
- Developing professional technical documents and reports as deliverables.
- Prepare research outputs for presentation and demonstrations.
- Management of your research and administration of the laboratory with guidance where required.
- The development of an optical fibre link SEKE demonstrator, involving: specifying and ordering components from which to construct it; evolution of a robust testing system including a model eavesdropper; extension of the system to develop a free space link; performing demonstration measurements and tests.
- Documenting the work as appropriate including operating instructions, scientific publications and patents if required.
Qualifications
- You should hold (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in a subject relevant to communications engineering.
- Have a track record of work in leading journals relevant to the field.
- Have practical experience of optical fibre communications technology and communications theory.
- Familiarity with code development for Software Defined Radio systems and suitable programming environments (e.g., Python, APIs, automation frameworks, Jupyter, etc.).
- Experience in program development and experimentation with testbeds for communication systems.
- Be prepared to engage with non-conventional approaches to system design.
- Have highly developed written and oral communication skills in English, excellent presentation, organizational and problem‑solving skills.
- Be self‑motivated to achieve research objectives and have the ability to work effectively and independently as part of a multi‑disciplinary team.
Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Optical Communications Security in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
Joining the Department of Engineering Science at the University of Oxford as a Postdoctoral Research Assistant offers an exceptional opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research within a collaborative and innovative environment. With access to world-class facilities and a strong emphasis on professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills and contribute to impactful projects like the Secure Encryption Key Exchange initiative. The vibrant academic culture in central Oxford not only fosters intellectual growth but also provides a unique setting for networking and collaboration with leading experts in the field.
