The University of Southampton invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution (CV-QKD) integrated with 5G technology, aimed at developing secure quantum communications for the next-generation wireless networks. The project is hosted within the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences under the supervision of Dr. Chao Xu.
Important Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | PhD in Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution with 5G Technology Integration |
| Organization/Publisher | University of Southampton |
| Work Location | Southampton, United Kingdom |
| Research Field | Quantum Communication, Wireless Networks, Quantum Key Distribution, 5G Technology |
| Funding Info | EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering (UKRI TechExpert Stipend ~£31,000/year) |
| Application Deadline | July 31, 2026 |
| Posted Date | October 2025 |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Researcher Profile | PhD Candidate |
| Apply Button | Apply on University of Southampton Portal |
| Required Qualification | UK 2:1 Honours Degree or International Equivalent |
| Required Experience | Background in Quantum Technology, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Communication Systems |
| Salary/Stipend Details | £31,000 per annum (tax-free, UKRI TechExpert funding) |
| Supervisor | Dr. Chao Xu (cx1g08@soton.ac.uk) |
| Department | Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences |
| Contract Type | 4-year PhD Studentship |
| Starting Date | 2026/27 Academic Year |
| Official Link | University of Southampton PhD Portal |
About the Project
This PhD project aims to integrate quantum communication technologies into emerging 5G and future 6G networks, paving the way for global quantum-secured connectivity. Specifically, the candidate will work on Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution (CV-QKD), a technique that encodes quantum information into the phase or amplitude of electromagnetic waves — allowing quantum encryption to be implemented using standard wireless transceivers.
Quantum-secured communication offers transformative potential for industries such as banking, healthcare, and data security, yet it faces two key challenges:
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Limited transmission distance due to atmospheric turbulence and multipath propagation.
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Low key generation rate compared to classical communication speeds.
This PhD will explore innovative solutions by integrating 5G-compliant error correction codes and leveraging the Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) framework to improve both robustness and secret key generation rate.
Research Objectives
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Design 5G-compatible error correction algorithms to enhance CV-QKD reliability.
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Develop techniques leveraging OFDM subcarriers to improve key distribution rates.
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Optimize wireless spectrum usage for quantum communications.
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Investigate machine learning and reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) for system performance improvement.
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Contribute to the development of secure quantum networks for 6G.
Supervision and Research Environment
The PhD will be supervised by Dr. Chao Xu, a lecturer and leading researcher at the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton.
Dr. Xu is recognized for achieving a perfect evaluation score (100/100) in the EU’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) fellowship programme, reflecting his expertise in advanced communication systems and quantum network integration.
The PhD student will be part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Quantum Technology Engineering, gaining access to state-of-the-art labs, collaborative projects, and interdisciplinary training in quantum engineering, AI, and wireless technologies.
Funding and Benefits
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Funding body: UKRI / EPSRC CDT in Quantum Technology Engineering
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Duration: 4 years, full-time
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Stipend: ~£31,000/year (tax-free, UKRI TechExpert rate)
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Training: Technical, scientific, and commercial skill development
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Eligibility:
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UK students: Full funding
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EU/Horizon Europe and International students: Studentships available at UKRI minimum rate; external funding welcome
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Entry Requirements
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Minimum of UK 2:1 Honours Degree (or international equivalent) in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
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Strong foundation in quantum mechanics, communication theory, or signal processing.
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English language proficiency as per university standards.
Application Process
To apply, candidates must:
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Select Programme Type: Research (2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences).
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Choose PhD Quantum Technology Engineering.
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Add Supervisor’s Name: Dr. Chao Xu.
Required Documents:
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CV (resumé)
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Two academic references
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Degree transcripts and certificates
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English language qualification (if applicable)
📧 For general queries: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk
📞 For project discussion: Dr. Chao Xu (cx1g08@soton.ac.uk)
🗓️ Application Deadline: July 31, 2026
About the University of Southampton
The University of Southampton is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and a global leader in engineering, technology, and scientific research. The Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences is known for its excellence in quantum technologies, telecommunications, and AI-driven research.
Through the Quantum Technology Engineering CDT, the university fosters collaboration between academia and industry to shape the next generation of secure, intelligent, and scalable communication systems.
Description
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