PhD Studentship – Next Generation Flat Optical Quantum Technologies: Theory of Nanophotonic Metasurfaces Coupled to Quantum Emitters at Newcastle University

Award summary

100% fees covered, and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £19,237 (2024/25 UKRI rate).

Overview

The regimes of electromagnetic interaction relevant to the development of quantum technologies are increasingly being stretched beyond the domain of conventional quantum optics theory. Today’s quantum emitters (QEs) are not just simple isolated atoms, but solid-state systems with rich internal structures. They can readily be combined with nanophotonic environments supporting exotic waves that enable improved generation of all-important but delicate quantum properties. So-called metasufaces offer numerous advantages for realising flat and scalable optical platforms operating at near room temperature. However, understanding such systems requires bridging three largely disconnected disciplines: quantum nanophotonics, solid-state physics, and open quantum systems theory in non-standard regimes. In this project we will extend Hamiltonian mapping techniques [1] to describe QE-metasurface interactions. The student will have the opportunity to work with partners at A-star Singapore possessing expertise in determining the metasurface-induced scattering of fields from QEs [2], and with partners at the University of Manchester possessing expertise in open quantum systems theory [1].

Number of awards: 1

Start date: 16^th September 2024

Award duration: 3.5 years

Sponsor: EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTP)

Supervisors: Dr Adam Stokes

Eligibility criteria:

You must have, or expect to gain, a minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a subject relevant to the proposed PhD project (inc. computing, mathematics, engineering etc.). Enthusiasm for research, the ability to think and work independently, excellent analytical skills and strong verbal and written communication skills are also essential requirements.

Home and international applicants (inc. EU) are welcome to apply and if successful will receive a full studentship. Applicants whose first language is not English require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all sub-skills.

International applicants may require an ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance certificate prior to obtaining their visa and to study on this programme. 

How to apply

You must apply through the University’s Apply to Newcastle Portal

Once registered select ‘Create a Postgraduate Application’.

Use ‘Course Search’ to identify your programme of study:

• Search for the ‘Course Title’ using the programme code: 8821F
• Please leave ‘Research Area’ field blank.
• Select ‘PhD Physics (full time) – Theoretical’ as the programme of study 

You will then need to provide the following information in the ‘Further Details’ section:

• A ‘Personal Statement’ (this is a mandatory field) – upload a document or write a statement directly in to the application form  
• The studentship code MSP083 in the ‘Studentship/Partnership Reference’ field  
• When prompted for how you are providing your research proposal – select ‘Write Proposal’. You should then type in the title of the research project from this advert. You do not need to upload a research proposal.

You must submit one application per studentship, you cannot apply for multiple studentships on one application.

Contact details

Dr Adam Stokes, School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics

adam.stokes@newcastle.ac.uk