Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution with 5G Technology Integration

About the Project

Supervisors:

Dr Chao Xu cx1g08@soton.ac.uk

This project, within the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering at the University of Southampton (https://qte.ac.uk), carries a UKRI TechExpert enhanced annual stipend around £31k for UK students. While researching the project outlined below you will also receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.

Project Description:

The objective of this project is to integrate quantum communication into emerging wireless networks, paving the way for a global quantum network in time for 6G.

Continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) modulates its information onto the phase or amplitude of the electromagnetic wave. This enables quantum-secured applications such as banking and healthcare to be delivered using off-the-shelf wireless transceivers. Nonetheless, the current wireless CV-QKD systems face two significant limitations. Firstly, transmission distance is constrained by both atmospheric turbulence and the multipath effect in electromagnetic wave propagation. Secondly, the generation rate of secret key is orders of magnitude lower than the classical communication data rate. To mitigate these challenges, on one hand, 5G-compliant error correction codes will be designed for enhancing CV-QKD’s robustness against channel impairments. On the other hand, leveraging the principal waveform of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) in 5G, the secret key rate is expected to increase with the number of OFDM subcarriers, thereby optimizing wireless spectrum access. This project will be supervised by Dr Chao Xu, who is the first researcher from the University of Southampton to achieve the highest score 100/100 in the EU’s Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) fellowship proposal evaluation.

For more information, please contact the supervisor: Dr Chao Xu cx1g08@soton.ac.uk

Entry Requirements:

Undergraduate degree (at least UK 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent).

Closing Date:

31 July 2026. International applicants must apply before 31 March 2026.

Funding:

See funding notes below.

How to Apply:

Please apply via the online portal and select:

• Programme type: Research
• Academic year: 2026/27
• Full time or part time
• Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences

Search for programme PhD Quantum Tech Eng

Please add the name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application.

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts/ certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)

We are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity and give full consideration to applicants seeking part-time study. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.