Research Scientist in Satellite Quantum Communications Cambridge Research Laboratory Toshiba Europe Ltd Outline Toshiba Europe Ltd has been at the forefront of quantum technology research, particularly quantum communications and quantum key distribution (QKD), for over two decades. Our teams have delivered worldleading breakthroughs such as recordhigh quantum communication bit rates, seamless classicalquantum network integration, and novel longdistance QKD protocols. Toshiba QKD systems are now commercially deployed in telecom networks worldwide. We invite applications for a Research Scientist to join our expanding programme in space and freespace quantum communications, with a focus on satellite and dronebased QKD systems. The successful candidate will take a leading role in developing nextgeneration freespace quantum communication technologies, integrating optics, electronics, software, system engineering, and aerospacegrade design methodologies. Research outcomes will contribute directly to cuttingedge demonstrators and missionclass systems, and will be published in leading journals and conferences. Responsibilities Quantum Communication System Development Devise new architectures, protocols, and prototype systems for satellite, drone, and groundbased QKD. Build and characterise freespace optical systems including telescopes, beam expanders, modulated laser sources, detectors, tracking sensors, and timing subsystems. Design and implement software for system control, automation, synchronisation, simulation, and data analysis. Interface with highspeed RF electronics, FPGA systems, and digital processing pipelines. System Architecture & Requirements Define overall architectures for dronegroundsatellite QKD links, ensuring coherent optical, mechanical, electronic, and software integration. Translate highlevel mission goals into engineering requirements, performance budgets, and subsystem specifications. Develop and maintain interface control documentation for optical, electrical, mechanical, and software subsystems. Integration, Verification & Testing Plan and execute endtoend test campaigns, from benchtop optical characterisation to outdoor field trials. Conduct environmental and reliability assessments: thermal design/analysis, vibration isolation approaches, redundancy strategies, and failuremode assessment. Perform calibration and metrology: optical alignment, polarisation extinction ratio checks, timing calibration, detector characterisation. Deployment & Field Trials Plan and support field deployments, including drone flight tests, groundstation alignment procedures, and freespace link commissioning. Define operational procedures for link acquisition, tracking, link maintenance, data capture, and safety protocols. Collaboration & Dissemination Mentor PhD students and earlycareer staff. Analyse experimental data and communicate findings through scientific publications, internal reviews, and international conferences. Collaborate with industrial partners and academic groups across the UK, Europe, and Japan. Skills & Experience Essential PhD in Physics, Electronic Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field. Several years of handson experience in optical, quantum, or freespace communication systems. Proven ability to build and characterise complex optical/electronic experimental setups. Experience with system design, integration, troubleshooting, and data analysis. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Selfstarter attitude, with enthusiasm for learning new skills and working in a multidisciplinary team. Skills & Experience Desirable Knowledge of QKD, quantum optics, or quantum communications. Experience with electronics design (PCB development, FPGA programming, highspeed electronics). Experience with freespace optical communications, satellite payloads, optical tracking, or precision optomechanical systems. Competence in Python or similar languages; experience with version control (e.g., Git). Familiarity with aerospace standards, environmental testing, or mission engineering.