The rapidly developing field of quantum technologies is set to have a transformative impact on core enabling technologies, from sensors to communications. There is a need for the crucial research that will develop new methods to enable the shift from laboratory devices and prototypes into manufacture and deployment. As part of a strategic investment in quantum systems engineering by Loughborough University, five fully funded PhD studentships are available in the area of Quantum Systems Engineering for Quantum Technologies.

You will join the vibrant Quantum Systems Engineering Research Group which is leading research into the development of new systems methods and their application to quantum technologies. The group is a dynamic interdisciplinary team working across engineering and science (for details, please see: http://www.lboro.ac.uk/research/quantum-systems/).

We are looking to develop three specific areas of activity:

• Three studentships (experimental) in: Accelerated failure and device characterisation of quantum systems. Working with experts from physics, electrical, electronic and systems engineering you will seek to find and understand pathways to designing reliable systems employing quantum technologies. Note, there is a possibility that one or two of these positions will be based within the Quantum Metrology Institute at National Physical Laboratory (NPL), Teddington - please indicate on you application form any preferences that you have in location. For the positions at NPL, experience in atomic, molecular and optical physics would be highly beneficial.

• One studentship (theoretical) in: Hierarchical Modelling, Interface Specification and Black Box Certification of Quantum Devices. Here we look at the interesting question of how will we know if a quantum technology is working - combining engineering questions with foundational aspects of quantum mechanics such as the measurement problem. You will work with experts from physics, electrical, electronic and systems engineering to address the problem of self-test of quantum devices that enable certification of correct operation.

• One studentship (experimental) in: Additive manufacture as a path to accelerated innovation in quantum technologies. Working with experts from additive manufacture, physics and chemistry to realise new ways of manufacturing quantum technologies using 3D-printing technology.

Eligibility

Candidates should hold, or expect to receive, a first or upper second class degree in physics, mathematics or relevant engineering discipline and meet the University entrance requirements.

Each studentship is for 3 years and is intended to start on 1 October 2015. Each studentship provides a stipend of £14,057 per annum plus tuition fees at the UK/EU rate for up to three years. International (non EU) students may apply but will need to find the difference in fees between those for a ‘UK/EU’ and ‘international’ student themselves.

For informal enquiries contact Dr Mark Everitt ([email protected] ) or Dr Vincent Dwyer ([email protected]).

To apply, please complete the online application using the following link: https://lucas.lboro.ac.uk/web_apx/f?p=100:1

Early application is advised. The studentships will be allocated as soon as a suitable candidate is found.

Please quote the following reference when applying: SCI-QSE-CDT quoting the research area, from the 3 above, when applying.