Vacancy: Embedded Software Engineer

KEY DETAILS

Role: Embedded Software Engineer
Location: Leiden, with occasional travel to Enschede; some hybrid working possible
Hours: Full-time
Start: As soon as possible
Apply by: Open until filled

THE ROLE

You’ll build the software and firmware that turns our photonic PUF chips into a working authentication system. You own the challenge-response protocol from readout through to decision, and build the interfaces that let our authentication layer work with partner systems such as quantum key distribution hardware.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

Develop firmware for PUF readout: challenge generation, optical measurement control and response digitisation
Implement the challenge-response authentication protocol: enrolment, verification and decision logic
Develop error-correction and helper-data algorithms for stable key extraction under real-world conditions
Design and build integration APIs for partner systems, such as external quantum key distribution stacks
Lead interoperability testing and validation of the combined system, including long-duration and security testing
Document software architecture and test results for product development and project reporting

WHAT YOU BRING

An MSc in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics or a related field
Strong Python and/or C(++) skills, with real experience controlling hardware (instrumentation, FPGAs or embedded systems)
Comfort working close to the metal: signal digitisation, timing and low-level protocol implementation
Experience designing and documenting APIs, ideally for integration with external partners or systems
An independent, hands-on and entrepreneurial way of working

NICE TO HAVE

Experience with error-correcting codes or helper-data schemes (e.g. from PUF or biometric key extraction)
FPGA or RFSoC development experience
Exposure to cryptographic protocols or formal security analysis

WHAT WE OFFER

The chance to shape the software architecture of our authentication technology from day one
Direct impact in a growing deeptech spin-out
A high degree of independence and room for initiative
Collaboration with research institutes and industrial partners

ABOUT QSA TECHNOLOGY

QSA Technology is a University of Twente spin-out developing photonic chips that give optical and quantum communication networks an identity that can’t be copied. Read more about our story and team on our About page.

HOW TO APPLY

Send your CV and a short motivation to career@qsatechnology.com. We’d love to hear from you.

Download the full vacancy here: Vacancy_Embedded_Software_Engineer (PDF)