EPSRC ‘CASE’ PhD studentship with National Physical Laboratory “Single Electron Interferometry”

Reference: 1269039

Accountable to: Professor Sir Michael Pepper

The purpose of the project is to explore new physical phenomena associated with the manipulation and interference of single electrons in specially designed and fabricated semiconductor nanostructures. It is anticipated that new physical phenomena will be obtained which is highly relevant to the developing area of quantum computation and quantum information processing. In addition the work will be of importance in the design and optimisation of new configurations for high frequency electron pumps; these will allow a high accuracy measurement of the electron charge and close the triangle of the quantum constants.

The experimental work will be principally performed at NPL (Teddington, Middlesex) and the successful candidate will also work with colleagues in the LCN who are engaged in studies of related physics as well as attending relevant lectures and seminars at UCL.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform electrical measurements on semiconductor nanostructures at low temperatures
• Ability to operate equipment in a safe and reliable manner.
• Suggest designs of novel semiconductor nanostructures and have ability to translated designs into electrical properties
• Use of appropriate software to analyze the data
• Develop collaborations and show ability to work constructively in a team.
• Demonstrate understanding and implementation of ideas of quantum transport in semiconductors .
• Be responsible for the maintenance and safety of the instruments in collaboration with both local personnel responsible for equipment and manufacturers’ service engineers.
• Maintain an accurate record of scientific activities in a lab notebook.
• Prepare progress reports on research for funding bodies as required.
• Prepare manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals.
• Prepare invention disclosures.
• Prepare presentations, including text and images, for delivery by self as well as others.
• Attend meetings both domestically and abroad to discuss results and to learn about related developments elsewhere.
• Contribute to the overall activities of the research team and department as required.
• Carry out any other duties as are within the scope, spirit and purpose of the job,
as requested by Prof. Pepper and NPL supervisors
• Maintain an awareness and observation of Fire and Health and Safety Regulations.at UCL and NPL. Actively follow UCL/NPL policies including Equal Opportunities and Race Equality policies.
PERSON SPECIFCATION

Essential

• A demonstrated interest and expertise in experimental physics as well as knowledge of quantum physics
• Experience in the application of quantum mechanics to semiconductor nanostructures is crucial in the understanding of the phenomena to be studied.
• Good oral, written, and presentation skills.
• Well-organised, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to think logically, create solutions, and make informed decisions.

Application procedure

For more details, please contact [Email Address Removed] also see www.london-nano.com for more information on the London Centre for Nanotechnology and www.npl.co.uk for more information on the National Physical Laboratory. For assistance with application details, please contact Ms Denise Ottley ([Email Address Removed]). PhD application forms can be downloaded or completed online at: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/graduate-study under “How to Apply”.