PhD scholarship in Quantum-Optical Networks with Solid State Spins and Photons
PhD scholarship in Quantum-Optical Networks with Solid State Spins and Photons
Danmarks Tekniske Universitet
A unique research opportunity is available at the Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark (DTU). We are offering a PhD position to work on a recently initiated project on controlling the emission and spins of solid state emitters towards the grand aim of constructing a quantum network.
The project will be hosted in the section for Quantum Physics and Information Technology (QPIT) at DTU Physics and is carried out in collaboration with partners from Ulm University/Germany, Humboldt University Berlin/Germany and Harvard University/USA. In QPIT we conduct widely recognized research within a range of diverse topics such as continuous-variable quantum information processing, quantum enhanced sensing, and engineering of solid state quantum systems.
Project description
Isolated spins in solid state systems hold great promise as the fundamental quantum bit in quantum information science. If the spins are effectively coupled to optical photons, distant spins can be connected (entangled) which eventually might result in the formation of a quantum network. In the present PhD project we will exploit Nitrogen-Vacancy centers in diamond (and other defect centers) coupled to micro-cavities or nanoscopic metallic wires to enable an efficient and clean coupling between a spin and a photon. The interface will be used to enable sharp measurements of the spin, the generation of non-classical photonic and spin states (such as entangled and squeezed states) and full characterization and control via homodyne detection.
Responsibilities and tasks
The successful candidate will be a part of a team dedicated to the design and development of solid state platforms for quantum information processing and sensing.
Some of the scientific tasks involved are:
- experimental planning, design, and implementation
- development of electronics in close collaboration with our electronic engineer
- theoretical and numerical simulation and analysis
- programming of experimental control software
A limited amount of supervision of student projects and tutoring will also be expected.
Qualifications
Candidates should have a master's degree within optuics/photonics, physics or engineering, or a similar degree with an equivalent academic level. He or she should be highly motivated and dedicated to work on challenging experiments. A background in experimental (quantum) optics and/or solid state physics is an advantage.
We expect the successful candidate to have very good communication skills in English, to be able to work closely with other team members, and we highly value scientific curiosity and creativity.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide.
Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Prof. Ulrik Lund Andersen and Asst. Prof. Alexander Huck.
We offer
We offer an interesting and challenging job in an international environment focusing on education, research, public-sector consultancy and innovation, which contribute to enhancing the economy and improving social welfare. We strive for academic excellence, collegial respect and freedom tempered by responsibility. The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is a leading technical university in northern Europe and benchmarks with the best universities in the world.
Salary and appointment terms
The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. The period of employment is 3 years.
Workplace
QPIT's vision is to understand, engineer and control complex quantum systems of light and matter, and to exploit these systems for quantum information processing and quantum metrology.
We are a medium-sized, highly international research group of students and staff with diverse backgrounds. We have a friendly and dynamic research environment with close, daily interaction among all group members and strong collaborations with many academic and industrial partners. Technical support is excellent with electronics and process engineers embedded in the section and a large capacity, skilled mechanical workshop at the Department.
We are situated just north of Copenhagen at the Lyngby campus of DTU, where we enjoy newly renovated office and lab space.
Further information
For further information, please contact the project and section leader Prof. Ulrik Lund Andersen at ulrik.andersen@fysik.dtu.dk or Asst. Prof. Alexander Huck at alexander.huck@fysik.dtu.dk.
Learn more about QPIT, the Department of Physics, and DTU at http://www.fysik.dtu.dk/english/Research/QPIT
Application
Please submit your online application no later than 8 May 2016. Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online," fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one pdf file. The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (an official translation into English)
- Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and excel spreadsheet here)
Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree, but cannot begin before having received it.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
DTU is a technical university providing internationally leading research, education, innovation and public service. Our staff of 5,800 advance science and technology to create innovative solutions that meet the demands of society; and our 10,300 students are being educated to address the technological challenges of the future. DTU is an independent academic university collaborating globally with business, industry, government, and public agencies.
