PhD Supervisor: Dr Elinor Twyeffort
Supervisory Team: Dr Elinor Twyeffort
Project description: The University of Southampton is expanding its PhD research in the area of Quantum Technology Engineering. In addition to the research project outlined below you will receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.
Controlling and manipulating quantum systems using electromagnetic fields underpins many cutting-edge quantum technologies. Typically, these fields are assumed to be classical. Recent work in the Quantum Optics Theory group at Southampton [Phys. Rev. Lett. 129, 183603 (2022)] has proposed a new mathematical description of the quantum-to-semiclassical transition in the interaction of light with matter, challenging the assumption that fields containing many photons can always be treated classically.
In this PhD project, you will build on this mathematical framework to develop practical mathematical and/or computational techniques for analysing the effects of field quantisation on quantum control. This work will have applications in superconducting circuit QED, the basis of many leading quantum technology platforms including IBM’s cloud-accessible quantum processors. Another area of potential application is the emerging field of Floquet engineering, which uses periodic driving to steer and modify processes in a wide range of systems – materials, quantum gases, even chemical reactions.
Within this project, you will have flexibility to determine your own directions, following your particular interests. In addition to a solid background in quantum physics and an interest in mathematical and/or numerical techniques, familiarity with quantum optics or quantum information/technology would be beneficial. There will be opportunities to pursue collaborations with experimental groups as well as other theory groups, both within the University of Southampton and around the world. The Quantum Optics Theory group and the School of Physics and Astronomy combine research excellence with a supportive environment where students can thrive.
If you are interested, please contact the supervisor for more information: Dr Elinor Twyeffort [email protected]
Entry Requirements
A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).
Closing date : 31 August 2024.
Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.
Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.
How To Apply
Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk) . Select programme type (Research), Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD iMR”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor.
Applications should include:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Two reference letters
- Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date
For further information please contact: [email protected]
The University of Southampton is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking to study part time. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.