In the field of quantum information theory we ask ourselves the following question— what happens if the underlying physical systems used to store information, data, are governed by the laws of quantum mechanics as opposed to classical mechanics?
As it turns out, quantum information is fundamentally different from classical information (for example, it cannot be copied!). By exploiting quantum phenomena, such as entanglement, we open the door to exciting and remarkable forms of computation, communication, and cryptography that are impossible to achieve in the realm of classical information theory and computer science.
We work on the theory side, utilising insights and tools from the study of quantum physics, theoretical computer science and classical information theory. The main focus of the group is devising and proving the security of quantum cryptographic and certification protocols, such as quantum key distribution protocols, and gaining a deeper understanding of the fundamental physics that renders them possible.