EDDIE SCHOUTE
MSc in Computer Science and Embedded Systems
Graduated in 2015
What kind of research are you working on?
“For my master’s thesis, I worked on theoretical research on quantum communication between satellites. I did my research within QuTech in the Quantum Information group, which is led by Stephanie Wehner. With quantum communication you can send messages in a perfectly secure way. In a network with a large number of users, however, it is not feasible for each user to have a direct quantum connection with every other user.”
“In my master’s thesis, I looked into the possibilities of a quantum network of satellites, which is able to connect arbitrary users of the network as if they had a direct quantum channel available. For this network, I furthermore looked into routing quantum messages effectively to their destination. I took the first step in studying network structures for quantum networks at a high level, and their accompanying routing algorithms. I considered a simplified model where each satellite can perform quantum communication with its immediate neighbours, and can create virtual quantum links that form shortcuts through the network.”
What is so exiting about quantum?
“Governments in Europe, Japan and Canada are about to launch quantum communication satellite projects and China recently announced plans to build an actual worldwide quantum network. These developments make the possibility of a quantum network of satellites highly relevant. The idea that my theoretical work could one day be used to actually deploy a satellite network for quantum communication is a very exciting prospect.”
How do you like working at QuTech?
“Before I started my project, Stephanie and I looked into possible projects that fit my interests. During the project, I had regular discussions with Stephanie, the roadmap leader, who has a computer science background herself and even worked as a professional hacker, and other members of the group. I also enjoy group lunches and meetings. The interesting topics and the great people in the group make my master’s thesis fun and a great learning experience.”
In 2015 Eddie graduated with distinction. His thesis ‘Shortcuts to Quantum Network Routing’ was supervised by Stephanie Wehner. How did Eddie pursue his career
“THE INTERESTING TOPIC AND THE GREAT PEOPLE IN THE GROUP MAKE MY MASTER’S THESIS FUN AND A GREAT LEARNING EXPERIENCE.”
- Eddie Schoute MSc
