Mikhail Kudinov

Mikhail Kudinov

Cryptography Researcher | Post-quantum Cryptography | Provable Security |

About

Hello! I’m Mikhail Kudinov, a cryptographer and security researcher with a deep passion for post-quantum cryptography, provable security, and building efficient, real-world cryptographic systems. I run Kudinov Cryptography Research, offering specialized consultancy services in cryptography. Whether you need cryptographic protocol design, security analysis, or implementation guidance, I provide expert insights tailored to your needs. For inquiries or collaboration opportunities, feel free to reach out.

My expertise sits at the intersection of theory and practice — I’m driven by a desire to make cryptography not just provably secure, but also practical, scalable, and ready for the post-quantum era. Over the years, I’ve collaborated with both academic researchers and industry leaders, including the Blockstream, Ethereum Foundation, and NIST to help design cryptographic protocols that are resilient to quantum attacks while remaining efficient for deployment.

Before my PhD, I worked at the Russian Quantum Center, where I led teams on applied cryptography projects, developed secure communication protocols, and contributed to shaping cryptographic infrastructures for critical systems. I regularly participate in cryptographic competitions and have multiple wins at international contests like NSUCRYPTO.

Outside of research, I enjoy solving math puzzles, engaging with the cryptography community through reviews, talks, and collaborations.

📚 Interests

  • Post-quantum cryptography
  • Digital signatures, KEMs, and hash-based schemes
  • Succinct argument systems
  • Blockchain and decentralized protocols
  • Provable security and formal models

🧠 Research & Contributions

Over the last 7+ years, I’ve:

  • Consulted Blockstream on post-quantum security for Bitcoin.
  • Published extensively at top-tier venues such as IEEE S&P and ASIACRYPT.
  • Contributed to the SPHINCS+ signature scheme — now standardized by NIST.
  • Collaborated with the Ethereum Foundation on integrating hash-based multi-signatures into post-quantum infrastructure.
  • Led research teams at the Russian Quantum Center, where we developed practical, quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions for real-world applications.

I’ve also reviewed papers for major conferences including Eurocrypt, SAC, and PKC, and served as a speaker at international workshops on cryptographic security.

🛠 Skills & Tools

  • Programming Languages: Rust, C/C++, Python, SageMath
  • Soft Skills: Project management, team leadership, technical presentations
  • Languages Spoken: Russian (native), English (fluent), Dutch (beginner)

🏆 Awards & Achievements

  • Multiple first-place wins at the NSUCRYPTO International Olympiad in Cryptography
  • Member of the SPHINCS+ team
  • Speaker at multiple workshops on cryptography
  • Co-author on patents for encryption schemes