A PhD project in optical microresonator based quantum opto-mechanical systems is available at the UQ Quantum Optics lab, to begin in late 2008 or early 2009. This project will experimentally investigate macroscopic mechanical systems in the never-before-observed quantum regime. These systems have the potential to test our understanding of quantum physics and the physical world; to provide new quantum technologies applicable to advanced computing and communication systems; and to enable ultrasensitive sensing technologies. The key breakthrough which will allow the quantum regime to be reached is the development of ultrahigh quality integrated optical microresonators. Our laboratory is one of only a few worldwide capable of fabricating these resonators.

Our group is in the School of Physical Sciences, University of Queensland. The University of Queensland is an international leader in quantum technology research, with a high concentration of pre-eminent researchers in the area and excellent research infrastructure. If you are interested, please email Dr. Warwick Bowen, [email protected].

Brisbane is a vibrant city of 2M population with access to a wonderful sub-tropical outdoors environment; including the great barrier reef, the gold and sunshine coasts, hiking, and tropical rainforests.