PhD studentship: Advanced microchips for quantum technology devices

A 3.5 year PhD position is available in in the Ion Quantum Technology Group (http://www.sussex.ac.uk/physics/iqt/) in the Sussex Centre for Quantum Technologies (http://www.sussex.ac.uk/scqt/) in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Sussex. The position is part of the UK National Quantum Technologies programme.

Impressive progress has been made in the implementation of quantum technologies with trapped ions. This includes the realisation of high-fidelity quantum gates, quantum error correction, teleportation and many quantum algorithms. As part of the UK Quantum Technology Hub on Networked Quantum Technologies, our group is involved in the development of two complementary trapped-ion quantum computer demonstrator devices. Ion transport within ion trap arrays is a critical ingredient for an ion trap quantum computer. As part of this project, you will develop reliable shuttling protocols for ion transport within X-junction ion trap arrays. The project includes both relevant theoretical simulations and experimental implementation. Outcomes from the project will include diabatic and adiabatic shuttling protocols and experimental demonstrations. You will focus on separation and recombination of ion chains and transport through junctions. You will also develop shuttling protocols for mixed species transport. You will participate in the experimental realisation of quantum algorithms making use of the ion transport capabilities you develop.

The Ion Quantum Technology Group (http://www.sussex.ac.uk/physics/iqt/) is one of the world’s leading centres for the implementation of trapped-ion quantum computing and simulation. The group is part of the UK Quantum Technology Hub on Networked Quantum Technologies and the UK Quantum Technology Hub for Sensors and Metrology. The group currently spans 4 Postdoctoral Fellows, 14 PhD students and 6 undergraduate students.

The city of Brighton & Hove has everything - sun, sea, brilliant clubs, great places to eat, fabulous shops, a truly cosmopolitan vibe and is located only 50min from central London. Located on the beach, Brighton boasts beautiful seaside views and beaches, boating, sports and beach activities. The South Downs provide breathtaking views, tranquil walks and plenty of opportunities for mountain biking, hiking or picnics.

You can find out more about the group at:
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/physics/iqt/

A short film about Professor Hensinger’s work can be found here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naqHy5MAYXw). A popular science lecture given by Prof. Hensinger explaining the principles of quantum computing at the US Department of Energy can be found here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fccSQHBssi0&feature=youtu.be) .

Some recent media coverage about the group’s work can be found here:
Profile interview with Prof Winfried Hensinger - http://www.sussex.ac.uk/newsandevents/index?id=38087
BBC NEWS - http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-38106482
BBC Radio 4 Today - https://twitter.com/BBCr4today/status/802068933272633344
International Business Times - http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/quantum-computing-breakthrough-uk-scientists-develop-technique-greatly-simplify-trapped-ions-1593317
BBC WORLD SERVICE World Update - http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p04jc79y
New Scientist - https://www.newscientist.com/article/2115521-quantum-computers-ditch-all-the-lasers-for-easier-engineering/

Detailled reading about our research can be found here (http://www.sussex.ac.uk/physics/iqt/publications.html), including:
• Trapped-ion quantum logic with global radiation fields, S. Weidt, J. Randall, S. C. Webster, K. Lake, A. E. Webb, I. Cohen, T. Navickas, B. Lekitsch, A. Retzker, and W. K. Hensinger, Phys. Rev. Lett. 117, 220501 (2016)
• Blueprint for a microwave trapped-ion quantum computer, B. Lekitsch, S. Weidt, A.G. Fowler, K. Mølmer, S.J. Devitt, Ch. Wunderlich, and W.K. Hensinger, arXiv:1508.00420 [quant-ph] (2015)

For more information, please email the head of group,
Prof Winfried Hensinger
(Professor of Quantum Technologies)
([Email Address Removed]).

To apply please email a CV, and your degree results as soon as possible or the latest by 15/8/17 to the email address above. Note in order to qualify for this position you must have resided in the UK for three years prior to the start of the position. If you are from outside the UK, you may apply for a non-funded position in the group, however, you will need to have a funding source for tuition fees and living expenses.