From encyclopaedias to applied cryptography: Petr's path to post-quantum engineering

• Name: Petr Muzikant
• Position: Security Engineer
• Operating System: macOS
• Nationality: Czech

My work

I like to think that I am one of the key people at Cybernetica driving forward our post-quantum (PQ) implementation capabilities – expanding the company's expertise in the field. I have received some encouraging indicators from colleagues like Dan and Jan that I am indeed succeeding in this effort so far.

For the past two years (and probably for many more to come), I have been primarily working on a post-quantum version of Estonia's e-voting system. This involves understanding the existing system, integrating post-quantum cryptography (PQC) where possible, and consulting Jan's PQC research team in areas where it cannot be applied directly.

Since IVXV is a vast system with numerous components utilizing cryptography in different layers and forms, I frequently come across new "side projects" (such as PQ Web-eID, PQ CDOC2, etc.). These initiatives are what truly advance Cybernetica's capabilities, allowing the company to start offering services in this area. In many cases, I am also responsible for drafting PQC-related content in new project proposals.

I also took on the responsibility of creating an in-house knowledge base for PQC. I manage internal (and now also external) GitLab/GitHub repositories – organising, labelling, and documenting them to ensure readability. At the same time, I created and maintain Cybernetica's internal wiki page on PQC, where I compile a list of internal projects, future business and research ideas, and important news from the PQC world.

Additionally, I was (somewhat involuntarily) chosen to be the face of most of Cybernetica's PQC engineering presentations. Fortunately, this has been helping me gradually overcoming my stage fright. While I could be described (to some extent) as a "PQC expert at Cybernetica", I feel that I still have a lot to prove to truly earn this title. But instead of discouraging me, this only motivates me to work harder.

My story

Looking back, I realise my path was somewhat pre-determined from the start. As a child, I loved encyclopaedias – I had a ton of them, with space-related ones being my favourites. In my early high school years, I excelled in maths and chemistry. However, I became fascinated with educational and sometimes philosophical or sci-fi-themed YouTube videos from channels like Vsauce and Veritasium. Everything about how the universe works, its vastness, and how people think about life and purpose excited me.

Over time, my interests shifted from chemistry to physics (including quantum physics) and programming. When it came time to choosing a university, a new degree programme called "Information Security" caught my attention, and I applied. That decision ultimately shaped who I am today.

I would describe myself as someone who loves exploring new things – whether that be new understandings of our world or new technologies – and applying them in real-world scenarios to benefit society. Cybernetica's Information Security Research Institute (ISRI) provides the perfect environment for this. And what better way to combine my university degree and my personal interests than through post-quantum cryptography?

In my role, I stay up to date with developments in quantum research, utilise my academic knowledge on applied cryptography, and explore new ways to protect real-world data. It's a win-win-win for me, and I am genuinely happy about it.

My other interests

My hobbies mostly revolve around clearing my head. I enjoy regular walks in nature, little bit of gaming (lately VR), occasional sports (except tennis, for some reason), and hiking in the mountains. I dislike vacations in hot climates and I absolutely adore my cat.

That said, my social battery can drain quickly if I am in the wrong environment. I’m able to recharge only when I have time to myself – to reflect, think, or immerse myself in my hobbies.

Q&A

• Does pineapple belong on pizza?
  Yes, Hawaiian is actually my second-favourite type of pizza (after Prosciutto Crudo).

• Is there something Cybernetica offers that no other employer can?
  I find it hard to believe I would have as much freedom in other companies as I do at Cybernetica. My current workflow suits me perfectly:

• A long-term, complex project (PQ e-voting), which I can approach at my own pace with full control over planning and execution.

• Short-term project assignments every now and then, providing a break from PQ e-voting while allowing me to work on diverse challenges.

• What tech trend excites you the most right now?
  I'm particularly excited by advancements in quantum physics and the progress of quantum computing. I need to stay informed about these developments due to my work in post-quantum cryptography. Otherwise, I like the browse open-source communities and explore new exciting projects and technologies.

• If you weren't in IT, what career would you have pursued?
  Growing up, everybody around me joked I would become a philosopher. But my answer would probably be finance as I do acknowledge its high significance in this world.

If Petr's journey has inspired you and you envision yourself as part of our team, take a look at our open positions – we'd be delighted to hear from you!