A Quantum Leap for Quantum Technology

Supervisory Team: Dr Ian Davidson, Dr Ghafour Amouzad Mahdiraji, Prof Francesco Poletti

Project description

PhD Opportunity: A Quantum Leap for Quantum Technology

Are you ready to take a quantum leap in your career? Join the world-leading Hollow Core Fibre group at the University of Southampton, in partnership with Microsoft Azure Fiber, and be part of a ground-breaking research project entitled “A Quantum Leap for Quantum Technology”.

Project Overview This pioneering project aims to develop custom Hollow Core Fibres (HCFs) for use in quantum computers, quantum repeaters and memories, and quantum communications. It leverages the ultra-low nonlinearity of the hollow core fibre and its ability to achieve low loss at wavelengths where efficient single photon sources and detectors exist, away from telecoms wavelengths of 1550 nm.

Role and Responsibilities As a PhD candidate, you will:

• Understand the fundamental physics of how these fibres work, and how the design parameters influence the performance of these fibres
• Develop custom HCFs for use in quantum computers, quantum repeaters and memories, and quantum communications.
• Collaborate with external partners in the UK and Europe to demonstrate ground-breaking applications.
• Work on low loss fibres compatible with efficient single photon sources and detectors.

About You We are seeking candidates with a strong interest in quantum technology and optics, and a keen desire to learn more about hollow core fibres. You must have a background in physics/engineering/material science and an interest in lasers and glass science. You must be keen to working in a lab and learn the operation of state-of-the-art cleanroom equipment.

Join Us This is a unique opportunity to work with a world leader in HCF technology and Microsoft Azure, who fabricate fibre in their dedicated facility near Southampton.

The project is based at the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) at the University of Southampton. The ORC has led the world in optical fibre technology research for the past 50 years. With over 90 state-of-the-art laboratories and 200 researchers working in all areas of photonics, the ORC provides an outstanding interdisciplinary environment for students to grow. Its cluster of 12 photonics spin-out companies provides a natural career path for PhD graduates.

If you are ready to take a quantum leap in quantum technology, we would love to hear from you.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date

Applications are accepted throughout the year. The start date will typically be late September, but other dates are possible.

Funding

For UK students, tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI rate plus £2,000 ORC enhancement tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years (totalling around £21,000 for 2024/25, rising annually). EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for scholarships. CSC students are eligible for fee waivers. Funding for other international applicants is very limited and highly competitive. Overseas students who have secured or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.

How To Apply

Apply online via the ‘Apply’ button above. Select programme type (Research), Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD ORC”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor.

Applications should include:

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk