The young researcher training programme focuses on quantum-secure communication systems, with an emphasis on the secure integration of post-quantum cryptographic mechanisms into modern communication systems and the analysis of their long-term robustness in real implementation environments. The main objective is to train researchers capable of systematically linking formal security models with specific implementation and architectural aspects of cryptographic solutions, and contributing to the development of methods for ensuring their integrity and compositional security.
In the initial phase, the researcher will deepen their knowledge of modern cryptography, formal security models, compositional security of protocols, and quantum threat models. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding the security proofs of post-quantum schemes, their assumptions, and the limitations that arise in the transition from theoretically proven security to practical implementation and systemic use. The central research phase will address the gap between the formally proven security properties of post-quantum schemes and their systemic integration. The research will focus on developing a compositional model and methodological framework for analysing the security properties of hybrid and post-quantum protocols in the presence of implementation deviations, partial compromises, and real-world limitations of communication architectures. Special attention will be given to the impact of implementation decisions, optimisations, and system adjustments on overall security, particularly regarding compositional security, resistance to implementation and side-channel attacks, and trade-offs between security, efficiency, and scalability. The proposed approaches will be analysed and experimentally validated in real or controlled environments, with the aim of establishing a systematic framework for the secure integration of post-quantum mechanisms into existing protocols and infrastructures.
The programme encourages the development of original scientific contributions at the intersection of formal cryptography, protocol security, and system security, as well as publications in international scientific journals and conferences in cryptography and information security. Through this work, the young researcher will develop the ability to critically analyse security models, independently design new approaches, and transfer theoretical results into practical communication systems.