Master Thesis – Secure Video Transport over a MIPI-Like Interface for Thermal Sensors

Thermal sensors send image streams to processing hardware through high-speed interfaces similar to MIPI. This thesis at Axis Communications explores how to protect that data against unauthorized access or manipulation during transmission. The aim is to demonstrate a practical encryption solution that preserves real-time video performance.

The assignment

• Review suitable cryptographic methods, considering key and nonce requirements, support for streaming, and hardware implementation cost.
• Define where encryption should be introduced, how frames and keys should be handled, and how the design will be tested.
• Implement the chosen solution in Verilog and verify its behavior in simulation or on hardware, including frame boundaries and error conditions.
• Develop a demonstrator using a suitable FPGA or another available hardware platform.
• Benchmark the protected data path against an unencrypted baseline for throughput, latency, hardware resource use, and power consumption where measurable.
• Deliver a reference model, reproducible test vectors, documented source code, and an evaluation of correctness, implementation trade-offs, and security limitations.

Who we are looking for

• Master’s students in computer science, engineering physics, electronic engineering, or a related field, with a strong interest in solving technical problems.
• Knowledge of digital hardware design, Verilog, and FPGA development and verification.
• Understanding of cryptography, including authenticated encryption and key management.
• Knowledge of digital communication protocols and streaming data paths.
• Enrollment at a Swedish university or university college, either directly or through an exchange program.

What we offer

• An opportunity to investigate secure thermal video transmission and demonstrate the solution on hardware.
• A friendly, open workplace that emphasizes collaboration, new ideas, and continued development.

Practical details

Location: Lund. The project is intended for two master’s students, with each completing 30 credits. Apply through the thesis advert by 27 November 2026; applications may be written in Swedish or English. Apply as a pair, submitting separate applications that clearly identify your co-applicant. Include your CV and university grade transcript. Questions: Johannes Svanbäck, Engineering Manager, Johannes.Svanback@axis.com.