High-bandwidth quantum sensors for navigation applications

Over the past decade, quantum sensors have rapidly progressed and have demonstrated their exceptional stability and precision. They have gathered significant interest from fundamental research and real-world applications, including navigation. Satellite navigation (SatNav) has soon prevailed after it was open to civilian use in the late 1980s, despite its inherent limitations, e.g. the proneness to interference and spoofing, the satellite signal reception in specific environments, including underground and underwater.

To tackle these challenges, the University of Birmingham, in partnership with Toyota Motor Europe, offers a PhD position to develop high-bandwidth quantum sensors for navigation applications based on novel atom interferometry techniques.

The PhD study will focus on novel atom interferometry techniques to address the issues related to the quantum sensors operating in dynamic environments and to improve the existing sensors. You will also be involved in developing advanced atom optics to increase sensitivity. Apart from the experimental work, you will be involved in simulations for concept validation.

You are expected to enjoy hands-on experiences. Background/interest in cold atom physics and quantum optics will be an advantage. Experiences and skills in electronics and programming languages like Python are desirable but not essential.

The successful candidate will join a thriving quantum technology research base at the University of Birmingham. The University has been active in quantum technologies since 2014, and now leads the UK Quantum Technology Research Hub in Sensing, Imaging and Timing (QuSIT). Bringing together academic partners from seven universities, the British Geological Survey and the National Physical Laboratory, this interdisciplinary Hub is active in translating quantum technology research into applications, including numerous collaborative projects with industry.

The Quantum Sensing Group, in the School of Physics and Astronomy, is dedicated to research for fundamental sciences and practical applications. The group is home to a range of activities including five operating atom interferometers, precision spectroscopy and underpinning technologies. The group promotes an open and inclusive culture, fostering a friendly, supportive and collaborative working environment. The group brings together people with skillsets from across areas such as physics, applied physics and engineering, with group members from eight different countries, speaking over twelve different languages.

The School of Physics and Astronomy is an Institute of Physics Juno Champion since 2014 and holder of the Athena SWAN Silver Award. Both initiatives recognise the School’s commitment to promote diversity and equality, and to encourage better practice for all members of the community, whilst also working towards developing an equitable working culture in which all students and staff can achieve their full potential. We welcome applications from all qualified applicants, and encourage applications from traditionally under-represented groups in physics and astronomy including, but not limited to, women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic.

For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Yu-Hung Lien ([email protected]) or Professor Michael Holynski ([email protected]).