SCA4PQC research program to develop side-channel resistant post-quantum cryptology
The Agentur für Innovation in der Cybersicherheit GmbH (Cyberagentur) launches the research program on side-channel resistance in post-quantum cryptology. The aim of this project is to develop encryption technologies that are not only resistant to classical and quantum-based attacks, but also to physical attacks in the form of side-channel attacks. The call for proposals is aimed at universities, colleges, research institutes, companies and start-ups that are working on future-proof cryptographic processes.
The rapid development of powerful quantum computers is threatening existing cryptographic methods that were previously considered secure. As many of the algorithms currently in use may no longer offer sufficient protection in the foreseeable future, research is focusing intensively on post-quantum cryptography. Nevertheless, the defense against side-channel attacks remains a central challenge. These use physical properties such as power consumption, electromagnetic radiation or time measurements to decrypt confidential data. To counter this risk, encryption technologies must be protected against physical threats beyond mathematical security.
The SCA4PQC program pursues the development of cryptographic methods that can withstand both mathematical and side-channel attacks. The aim is to create methods that are practicable, efficient and sustainably secure. The solutions developed should not only be convincing in theory, but also stand up to real-life conditions.
The focus is on three central research areas. The first research area is dedicated to the security of cloud and desktop environments, particularly with regard to virtualized systems and shared infrastructure. The second research area focuses on the Internet of Things, where special protective measures are required due to limited resources. The third area examines the security of smartcards, which are used in digital identity management and payment transactions, among other things.
The program is divided into several phases. Firstly, interested institutions have the opportunity to apply for participation within one month. Detailed research and development strategies are then worked out in a three-month concept phase. The subsequent four-year research phase consists of two sections: Three years are dedicated to basic research, while the final year is used to develop demonstrators and investigate their resistance to side-channel attacks.
Dr. Matthias Minihold, head of the research program, emphasizes the strategic importance of this project. He emphasizes “that securing digital infrastructures against quantum and side-channel attacks is an essential prerequisite for the digital sovereignty of the future. Only through targeted research and development can cryptographic processes be created that can withstand the threats of the coming years.”
The Cyberagentur invites research institutions and companies to participate in this forward-looking project. The aim is to jointly develop innovative solutions to ensure a robust digital security architecture for the post-quantum era.
The invitation to tender was published in the Supplement to the Official Journal of the European Union with the contract notice number TED 202003-2025: https://ted.europa.eu/de/notice/-/detail/202003-2025. The closing date for the call for tenders is 05.05.2025
Further information: https://www.cyberagentur.de/programme/sca4pqc/