Host Institute: Toshiba Research Europe Ltd

Project Supervisor: Dr Andrew Shields

ESR: Mirko Pittaluga

Starting date: March 2017

Duration: 3 years

Project Description

Although the protocols for Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) can be proven to be information theoretic secure, small deviations of a real world system from the ideal model, can allow an adversary to gain information about the secret key while remaining hidden.  Device independent techniques seek to avoid problems caused by device imperfections by using entanglement to realizing systems with security that is self-testing.  Of these Measurement Device Independent (MDI) QKD is the most practical, although still confined to the lab and (until now) with bit rates far below than of conventional QKD.

Recently we have shown that using gigahertz clocked light sources it is possible to increase the secure bit rate of MDI-QKD by several orders of magnitude to values that are comparable to conventional QKD [Nature Photonics 10, 312 (2016)].  This project will study techniques for achieving continuous operation of MDI-QKD that could allow its use outside the lab in practical situations.  The project will study new applications of the technique in different network environments and implement a field trial of the technology.  Although mostly experimental in nature, the project could involve a considerable amount of theory and simulation of the experimental system.

Project Outcomes

To be updated.