Master Thesis Post-Quantum Embedded Software Project

This thesis focuses on optimizing the performance and memory footprint of modern post - quantum cryptographic (PQC) schemes on resource - constrained embedded platforms. Typical targets include microcontroller - class systems such as Arm Cortex - M and RISC - V-based devices. You will work with established open - source PQC codebases and benchmarking frameworks such as PQM4 and PQClean, studying both algorithmic and implementation - level optimization strategies. The goal is to identify bottlenecks and experimentally evaluate how different approaches affect execution performance, stack usage, and overall memory footprint on embedded targets.

This is a research - driven project in which you contribute by exploring solution spaces, generating technical insights, and documenting your findings.

Your Responsibilities

In this thesis project, you will:

• Perform a literature survey on optimization techniques relevant to PQC and embedded cryptography.
• Analyze existing PQC implementations to identify performance or memory bottlenecks.
• Implement and evaluate optimization ideas using embedded cryptographic frameworks (e.g., PQM4, PQClean) on microcontroller - class platforms.
• Measure and compare performance improvements and memory usage using appropriate benchmarking methodologies.
• Document your methodology and results and present your conclusions to the security research team.

Do you have experience in System design?, You are a master's student in Computer Science, Information Engineering, Information Security, Cryptography, Mathematics, Software Engineering, or a related field., * Good C programming skills, including experience with low - level development and performance - aware code.

• Good hands - on experience with embedded or low - level software development (e.g., microcontrollers, cross - compilation, debugging, or build systems).
• Interest to learn more about the following topics: embedded systems, cryptography, software optimization, hardware-software interaction, or secure system design.
• Very good English communication skills, both written and spoken.
• A professional and collaborative working style, including openness to guidance, constructive feedback, and teamwork in a research - oriented environment.

• A monthly salary of €2,120.00
• Flexible working hours
• T he possibility to work in a hybrid setup
• Access to an on-site cafeteria
• Networking initiatives and Employee Resource Groups such as Young Community, No Extra Planet, NXP Equal, Women in NXP, and more - fostering both professional and personal exchange

Please note: The successful candidate may/will be responsible for security related tasks. The assignment may/will be in scope of security certifications, therefore a conscious and reliable way of working is necessary.