About time: Standardised timing and feasibility studies for the quantum internet

Quantum communications will be a core technology underpinning the future quantum internet. A prominent form of quantum communications, called quantum key distribution (QKD), allows exchange of secret messages even in the presence of an eavesdropper who is hundreds of years ahead of current technology, with security underpinned by the laws of physics. Time synchronisation is a core requirement of real-world quantum communications systems, however synchronising a network in a way that is compatible with QKD is not straightforward. This project, based at the Institute for Safe Autonomy, will help to improve the practical feasibility of deployed quantum communications using a well-known high-performance time synchronisation system called White Rabbit. The student will use optical and electrical components including White Rabbit devices, lasers, optical detectors, fibre-optics and amplifiers. In particular, they will help to test and develop, and possibly propose, innovative new ways of combining White Rabbit and QKD to improve practicality and scalability. There is the potential to make a significant contribution to this work, which could very likely lead to a published article in a peer-reviewed journal. Familiarity with principles of quantum mechanics is welcome but not essential for this project. It is far more important that the student is keen to work in a lab to solve practical problems. Students will need to find their own accommodation and be expected to present their findings orally at a research day in York on 08th September 2026.