UK: PhD Studentship in Cryptography, University College London

PhD Studentship in Cryptography, University College London, UK

Topic: Non-interactive Zero-Knowledge Proofs

Non-interactive zero-knowledge proofs can be used to demonstrate that a statement is true, without revealing anything else. Non-interactive zero-knowledge proofs have numerous security applications. Examples are identification protocols, where a user proves that they know a secret password without revealing the password itself, or internet voting protocols, where a voter demonstrates that they have cast a valid vote without revealing what the vote is.

This project aims at developing non-interactive zero-knowledge proofs with high efficiency and with advanced security properties. Another goal is to apply non-interactive zero-knowledge proofs in new security applications.

Supervisors
Dr Jens Groth
BT Prof. Yvo Desmedt

About the Candidate
The ideal candidate should have a strong background in Computer Science, Mathematics or a related field. Funding is available for UK candidates only, or candidates that can demonstrate a relevant connection to the UK (usually established by being resident for a period of three years immediately before the date of application for an award). In addition, the student must have an EU citizenship to qualify for reduced UCL tuition fees.

About the Position
The PhD will be supervised by Dr Jens Groth and BT Professor Yvo Desmedt of University College London, located at Adastral Park. The position will be funded by EPSRC. For eligible candidates, the funding will cover UCL tuition fees and provide a tax-free stipend of at least GBP 14,600 per annum for 3 years.

Application and Information
If you wish to apply for this studentship please use this link.

Make sure you specify PhD: “Non-interactive Zero-Knowledge Proofs, Adastral Park Campus” on the part of the form that asks what you are applying for. Please ensure you mark the department as “Adastral Park” in your application and the name of the supervisor as Dr. Jens Groth.

Please also e-mail copy of your transcripts and a CV to t.clarke[ at ]adastral.ucl.ac.uk with the title “[PhD Studentship in NIZK proofs - by Jens Groth]“, or send by post to:

Miss T Clarke, UCL Adastral Park Postgraduate Campus, Ross Building PP3, Adastral Park, Martlesham Heath, Suffolk, IP5 3RE, UK

Informal enquiries may also be directed to Jens Groth, j.groth[ at ]ucl.ac.uk with the title “[PhD Studentship in NIZK proofs]“.

The closing date is 31st December 2008.