Our Research Group
Our team uses neutral atomic ensembles for studying a variety of aspects of quantum physics and quantum technology, across a series of experiments in our laboratories at the University of Sussex. The research ranges from more applied investigations utilising the sensitivity of atomic systems for magnetic field measurements (of both microscopy of surfaces and materials, as well as the magnetic signals from the brain) to more fundamental studies of complex quantum phenomena in ultracold gases both in and out of equilibrium.
Magnetic sensing for new technologies
From smartphone cameras to deep-space telescopes, being able to capture images now underpins a significant amount of our technology. This project aims to expand this technology to low-frequency magnetic fields by creating sensor arrays capable of producing images of magnetic fields. Developing such a device will allow us to observe a range of interesting systems, such as electric vehicles batteries, magnetic nanoparticles and neuronal activity in the human brain. The Quantum Systems and Devices (QSD) group at the University of Sussex are active in both developing, and furthering the applications of, quantum magnetic sensors for both research and industry.
The Project
Recent work has shown that optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs) are sensitive enough to measure the tiny magnetic fields generated by the body, being around a billion times smaller than the Earth’s magnetic field. As such, OPMs are now viable alternatives to expensive superconducting detectors for bio-magnetism. In particular, they have been shown to be capable of being used in magnetoencephalography – the measurement of the brain’s magnetic fields.
The aim of this work will be to continue the development of magnetometer arrays within the Quantum Systems and Devices group, adaptable to a variety of bio-magnetic systems, including the brain and spinal cord. The PhD student will play a central role in this investigation and will learn a wide array of tools in atomic physics, quantum technology and modelling. They will work with the QSD group at the University of Sussex, as well as local neuroscientists and, where relevant, industry. The successful applicant will have some technical background in one of the sciences and be proficient in computer programming. Some knowledge of medical imaging is an advantage, as is some background in neuroscience.
If you have practical questions about the progress of your on-line application or your eligibility, contact Emma Ransley at [Email Address Removed]
For academic questions about the project, contact Dr Fedja Orucevic, [Email Address Removed]