Dr. Nicholas Spooner

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Nicholas Spooner is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Cornell University, where he is a member of the Theory Computing group. His research focuses on cryptography, with a particular interest in post-quantum proof systems. Spooner has worked on topics including probabilistic proof systems, zero-knowledge proofs, post-quantum cryptography, quantum information, coding theory, and computational complexity. He previously served as an Assistant Professor at the University of Warwick and held a Visiting Assistant Professor position at New York University for the 2023-24 academic year. He completed his PhD at the University of California, Berkeley, under the supervision of Alessandro Chiesa and has degrees in theoretical computer science from ETH Zürich and computer science from the University of Cambridge. Spooner has been involved in various teaching roles, including courses on Quantum Cryptography and Quantum Computing at Cornell and NYU, and has advised PhD students in his research areas. His contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous publications and conference presentations.

Research Interests

Experience

Assistant Professor

2024-01-01 — Present

Cornell University • Ithaca, NY, USA

Member of the Theory Computing group.

Visiting Assistant Professor

2023-09-01 — 2024-06-30

New York University •

Teaching and research in quantum computing.

Assistant Professor

— 2024-01-01

University of Warwick •

Teaching and research in computer science.

Postdoctoral Researcher

— Present

Boston University •

Hosted by Ran Canetti.

Courses

Quantum Cryptography Quantum Computing Probabilistic Proofs

Requirements for Cornell University

Master Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Listening
Required:15
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:22
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Architecture or related field
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Portfolio (SlideRoom)
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Personal Statement
  • Transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Department of Architecture