Topological States in Coupled Double Nanowire Superconductor Hybrids

Description
A fellowship for an experimental PhD thesis work is now available in the Nano- and Quantum Electronics group at the Department of Physics of the University of Basel: www.nanoelectronics.ch.

Our current projects are strongly motivated by the recent excitement about topological phases and Majorana bound states (MBSs) that can emerge in hybrid devices in low dimensions, for example in semiconducting nanowires (SNWs) with strong spin-orbit interaction coupled to a superconductor (SC). The combination of time-reversal symmetry breaking, induced by a magnetic field, spin-orbit field and superconducting pairing can give rise to new states of matter with non-trivial topological phases and unconventional pairing. To unravel the emergence of MBSs, we develop new probes with which the proximity gap and proximity-induced bound states (Andreev-, Shiba states) can be tested. The present project goes even a step further, since we aim to investigate topological states in coupled nanowires. If in contact with a SC, non-local pairing between the wires can give rise to new states, so called Parafermions. These are also, similar to MBSs, non-abelian quasi-particles, which have been proposed as units for topological quantum computing. However. parafermions allow for a larger set of operations and are therefore more desirable than MBSs.

Your tasks
Fabricate state-of-the-art devices that consist of coupled semiconducting NWs with superconducting contacts. Do low temperature transport experiment and study the emergent bound-states induced by the pairing interaction using novel probes low and high-frequency probes. The thesis will be funded for a maximum of four years during which the PhD should be defended.

Application / Contact
To apply, please email to [Email Address Removed] a short curriculum vitae including names and contact info of referees and scanned copies of grades. Please add a short statement (few lines only) on your motivation and your education / background in quantum physics and solid-state physics.

Keywords
Quantum science; quantum electronics; nanotechnology; nanoelectronics; solid-state physics; quantum technology; topological insulators; topological quantum computing

Your profile
We look for a highly motivated student (preferably a physicist) who is keen to explore fundamental aspects of quantum devices. You should have a dedication for experimental work in the field of quantum science and technology and be ready to collaborate and share your knowledge and experience in a team. We expect a strong dedication and commitment to push the frontiers of experimental physics. Requirement: you need to have a profound understanding of quantum and solid state physics as it is taught in a physics curriculum.

Our offer
We offer state-of-the art infrastructure, a maximum if 4 years funding at a competitive PhD salary level between 47‘000 and 50‘000 CHF per year. Excellent support and supervision and a highly motivated team.