Quantum Network Architecture and Protocols

Overview

The researcher will contribute to the design and analysis of quantum network protocol stacks and
control planes, supported by simulation and emulation tools, to evaluate performance, scalability, and
interoperability under realistic noise and decoherence conditions. This work supports high-priority
efforts within NIST’s Communications Technology Laboratory (CTL) to develop frameworks, reference
architectures, and technical foundations for emerging quantum networking standards.

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in computer science, electrical engineering, physics, or a closely related field.
• Strong background in networking and distributed systems, including IP/optical/wireless networks, network simulation and modeling, software-defined networking, and network management.
• Solid understanding of quantum mechanics and quantum information, including light- matter entanglement, quantum hardware, and experimental considerations in quantum communication.
• Experience with research-oriented software development, including: ○ Programming in Python and/or Java (additional languages welcome) ○ Version control and collaborative workflows (Git) ○ Modern development practices (modular design, reproducibility, cloud-native or containerized environments)
• Ability to bridge theory, simulation, and experimental realities in quantum networking research.
• Experience with discrete-event simulators or network modeling frameworks.
• Familiarity with standardization processes or technical working groups.

Research Proposal

Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Conduct research on quantum network architectures, including control, management, and routing across heterogeneous networks.
• Design and evaluate quantum networking protocols (e.g., entanglement distribution, routing, synchronization, and management).
• Develop and use network simulation and emulation tools to evaluate protocol designs, interfaces, and abstractions.
• Contribute to pre-standardization and standards development activities for quantum networks, including reference models, interfaces, and protocol abstractions.
• Collaborate with experimental teams to incorporate quantum mechanics, noise models, and metrology data into architectural studies.
• Disseminate research results through peer-reviewed publications, standards contributions, and technical presentations.