Post Master
Project
PREP0004222
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.
Quantum Network Architecture and Protocols
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.
- U.S. Citizen is preferred.
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.
NIST Sponsor
Abdella Battou
Group
Boulder Laboratory Director Office
Salary / Hourly Rate {Min}
$80,000.00
Schedule of Appointment
Full time
Start Date
Sponsor email
Work Location
Onsite NIST (Gaithersburg, MD)
Salary / Hourly rate {Max}
$90,000.00
Total Hours per week
40
End Date