Security evaluations of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) primitives

Projects are expected to deliver one or more of the following results:

• Breakthrough insights into the quantum hardness of mathematical problem classes underpinning PQC.

• Novel quantum algorithms demonstrating significant speed-up against lattice-based, code-based or other problems.

• Optimised implementations of quantum algorithms in high-level programming languages for cryptanalytic use.

• Operational environments/testbeds assessing the robustness of cryptosystems under realistic quantum attacker models.

• AI-driven methodologies for automated discovery of vulnerabilities in PQC schemes.

• Concrete cryptanalysis results evidencing potential weaknesses in candidate PQC primitives.

• Validated parameter recommendations and design guidelines for next-generation post-quantum cryptographic building blocks resilient to quantum and AI-based attacks.

• Focus on assessing the quantum security of PQC algorithms by: 1) researching quantum algorithms with demonstrable speed-up (lattice-, code-based, others); 2) exploring purely AI-based or hybrid quantum+AI attack strategies.

• Prioritise lattice-based and code-based primitives, while allowing exploration of other mathematical problem classes.

• Combine theoretical analysis with practical implementation, including development of hardware/software testbeds to evaluate quantum-attacker feasibility.

• Deliver clear identification of vulnerabilities in current PQC building blocks and concrete recommendations for parameter tuning and system design against quantum and AI-enhanced attacks.

• Consortium composition must include expertise in both post-quantum cryptography and quantum computing.

• Align with the “Destination – Increased Cybersecurity” expected impacts (EU technological autonomy, resilience, SME focus, privacy by design).