Student Physics, Computer science or similar (f/m/x)

Enter the fascinating world of the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR) and help shape the future through research and innovation! We offer an exciting and inspiring working environment driven by the expertise and curiosity of our 11,000 employees from 100 nations and our unique infrastructure. Together, we develop sustainable technologies and thus contribute to finding solutions to global challenges. Would you like to join us in addressing this major future challenge? Then this is your place!

For our Institute Communication and Navigation in Oberpfaffenhofen near Munich we are looking for a

Further development of a simulator of constellations of satellites for quantum key distribution

What to expect:

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) promises to bring forward a revolution in cybersecurity by providing strong guarantees on the privacy of the generated secret keys. However, the maximum distance at which QKD links can be established via terrestrial fibre connection is limited to a few hundred kilometres, due to the exponential decay of signal in optical fibres. In contrast, Free-Space Optical (FSO) links have a loss scaling only quadratically with the distance and allow long distance quantum communications. The use of satellite-based FSO links is the only approach that can enable QKD at intercontinental distances with existing technologies. A Python simulator is being developed at DLR for performing accurate simulations of constellations of QKD satellites, covering all relevant aspects of the system: satellite orbit propagation, link availability and quality, QKD protocol simulation and optimisation, classical information routing, and global performance analysis. These are dealt as several interrelated classes. The student shall be able to work on any of these aspects, as required in the software development.

What we expect from you:

• Student specializing in computer science, information technology, electronic engineering or physics
• very good programming skills, including scripting languages (Matlab, Python, or comparable languages)
• knowledge of Git and Github/Gitlab
• some background knowledge of quantum information theory is beneficial
• very good knowledge of English

What we offer:

DLR stands for diversity, appreciation and equality for all people. We promote independent work and the individual development of our employees both personally and professionally. To this end, we offer numerous training and development opportunities. Equal opportunities are of particular importance to us, which is why we want to increase the proportion of women in science and management in particular. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are qualified.

Further information:

Starting date: 01.11.2024
Duration of contract: 6 months
Type of employment: full-time

Remuneration: up to the German TVöD 5

Vacancy-ID: 97405

Contact:
Dr. Davide Orsucci Institut für Kommunikation und Navigation
Tel.: 08153 28 4273