PhD Studentship: Momentum-state quantum computer

PhD Supervisor: Dr Tim Freegarde Supervisory Team: Dr Tim Freegarde 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. The interactions between cold quasi-2-level atoms and the optical field of counter-propagating laser beams allow a new type of quantum computer based upon the ladder of momentum states that the atoms can occupy and their representation as binary numbers. As a computational device, this quantum computer would be terrible, for its size scales exponentially with the number of qubits. However, all information has a physical manifestation, and the value of the momentum-state quantum computer is that it allows complex physical manipulations to be designed from simple operations – for example, the combination of individual laser pulses into complex sequences that cool an atomic cloud by halving each atom’s velocity. In this project, you’ll demonstrate the momentum state quantum computer for the first time and characterize it experimentally, by combining a new laser system for higher intensities with optimal control pulses designed to maintain fidelity throughout the pulse sequence. In doing so, you’ll develop skills and expertise in quantum technologies, atomic and laser physics, photonics, imaging, digital modelling, control and instrumentation. If you are interested, please contact the supervisor for more information: Tim Freegarde tim.freegarde@soton.ac.uk 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: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk 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.