Ph.D. Position in Post-Quantum Cryptographic Engineering (University of Tartu, Estonia)

The Cryptography Research Group at the Institute of Computer Science at the University of Tartu invites applications for a Ph.D. position in applied post-quantum cryptography, with a focus on the efficient and secure implementation of lattice-based cryptographic schemes. The selected candidate will design, implement, and analyze practical lattice-based cryptographic primitives that remain secure against quantum-capable adversaries. The research will emphasize high-performance implementations, scalability for real-world systems, and strong protection against implementation-level threats such as side-channel attacks. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge problems at the intersection of cryptographic theory and practical deployment, contributing to the design and analysis of cryptographic protocols that provide strong, provable security guarantees while achieving efficiency and scalability in modern computing environments.

Candidates with experience in lattice-based cryptography or related areas of computer science and mathematics are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain by spring) an MSc degree or equivalent with a research thesis and have a solid background in mathematics or theoretical computer science, including prior exposure to cryptography. Programming experience, particularly in Python/SageMath/Magma and/or C/C++ and/or Java and/or Verilog HDL, is highly desirable.

The PhD position begins on September 1, 2026, and has a duration of four years. The successful applicant will work as a junior research fellow under the supervision of Sedat Akleylek, with potential collaboration from other researchers in the group.

About University of Tartu The University of Tartu is Estonia’s leading research university and a recognized center for computer science and cryptography. The department is located in the Delta Centre in central Tartu and hosts an international community of faculty and graduate students working in areas such as cryptography, coding theory, machine learning, and information systems.

About Estonia Estonia is often described as a leading “digital nation”, known for its early adoption of nationwide digital services and home to companies like Wise and Bolt. Tartu is a compact and vibrant university town with a lively student community, short commuting times, and easy access to nature.

About Salary PhD students receive a net monthly stipend of about €1900, while the cost of living in Tartu remains relatively affordable. For instance, renting a modern one-bedroom apartment in the city center usually costs below €600 per month. In addition to the salary, the position provides benefits such as funding for research travel, social events, and language courses.

Our group has more openings in lattice-based cryptography, see here for more information.

Interested candidates should send their applications (including CV, B.Sc./M.Sc. thesis, academic transcripts and motivation letter with a brief statement of research interests) to

Sedat Akleylek, sedat dot akleylek at ut dot ee

The application deadline is April 16, 2026.