Internship - Software Engineer (Placement Year 2026)

Software Engineer Internship 

This is a year long internship beginning in July 2026

Applications will close on 8th February 2026 with interviews taking place week commencing 16th February. 

PQShield is a highly innovative deep tech start-up that specialises in post-quantum cryptography and cybersecurity. Our mission is to innovate and create solutions for the world's most imminent security challenge: quantum computers.

Here at PQShield, we understand our people are the most important factor in driving our success. Therefore, our core value is to provide them with a work environment that promotes personal and professional growth. Hard work and loyalty are always met with acknowledgement, appreciation and reward.

💼 About the role

We are looking for aspiring software developers with a passion for cybersecurity and cryptography. You will take a year out of university acquiring leading edge experience of post-quantum technology in the context of agile software development.

You will be fully mentored by expert professionals and will interact with hardware, firmware, software and marketing engineers.

Initially we will tutor you and your fellow interns in cryptography and set you programming challenges. This will prepare you to work on a choice of several technical projects in a team environment. In your year with us you may complete 2 or more different projects.

The general theme of the project choices will be to show off our post-quantum algorithm capability and performance on different applications, platforms and environments. Some of our previous internship projects have included; Crypto performance benchmarks on microprocessors, post-quantum noise communication protocols and much more!

🎯 Skills and Qualifications:

• Student of Cryptography, Applied Cryptography, Mathematics or Computer Science
• Completed at least 2 years of the above studies.
• Ideally based in Oxford, as we have lovely serviced offices in Summertown
• Good understanding of the software development lifecycle
• C, Javascript & Python experience
• Comfortable with Linux command line interfaces
• Professional attitude and strong work ethic
• Flexible and able to work well in a team
• Strong written and spoken English
• Right to work in the UK

🏆Some of the perks of working with us:

• Unparalleled opportunities to learn and accelerate career development.
• A collaborative, team environment with people who truly love what they do.
• 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays and two wellness weeks).
• The chance to join us on this exciting adventure as we enter the Quantum-era of technology.