International Research Collaboration: US NSF-DFG project "A Unified Hardware Design for the USA and German Post-Quantum Standards"

The advent of quantum computing poses a significant threat to the security of classical encryption methods used in the global communication infrastructure. Quantum algorithms can solve complex mathematical problems exponentially faster than classical algorithms, threatening the security of widely used cryptographic schemes such as RSA and elliptic curve cryptography. This brings an urgent need to develop and deploy new post-quantum algorithms that can withstand quantum attacks.

To address this challenge, international standardization bodies have been working on novel cryptographic standards. In the United States, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is leading the effort, while in Germany, the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) is recommending specific algorithms for quantum-safe communication. However, a significant challenge arises when different countries adopt different standards. For instance, BSI recommends the FrodoKEM algorithm for post-quantum key encapsulation, whereas NIST has selected CRYSTALS-Kyber algorithm for the same purpose. Such variations require the development of hardware capable of supporting multiple standards.

The newly-funded National Science Foundation (NSF) / German Research Foundation (DFG) project "A Unified Hardware Design for the USA and German Post-Quantum Standards", led by Prof. Dr.-Ing. Elif Bilge Kavun from the University of Passau and Dr. Aydın Aysu from the North Carolina State University (NCSU) in the United States, targets the design of a unified hardware accelerator that can efficiently support both of the mentioned post-quantum key encapsulation protocols. This involves several non-trivial tasks ranging from algorithmic innovations to system re-architecting which requires custom hardware design and physical security enhancements.

The development of such a unified hardware solution has far-reaching implications. It addresses a multi-billion-dollar market and aligns with global standardization efforts such as those led by NIST and European bodies. This project is expected to facilitate the secure and efficient implementation of post-quantum cryptographic standards, ensuring a smooth transition to quantum-safe systems for applications requiring high-performance and security. The project outcomes will be significant for securing global communications in the quantum era. Through a unified hardware accelerator for post-quantum cryptographic standards, the researchers will not only address current security challenges, but also implement a robust and adaptable cryptographic infrastructure for the future.

Principal Investigator(s) at the University	Prof. Dr. Elif Bilge Kavun (Juniorprofessur für Sichere Intelligente Systeme)
Project period	01.10.2024 - 30.09.2027
Source of funding	DFG - Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft > DFG - Sachbeihilfe