Funding

Self-funded

Project code

SMAP5291021

Department

School of Mathematics and Physics

Start dates

October, February and April

Application deadline

Applications accepted all year round

Applications are invited for a self-funded, 3 year full-time or 6 year part-time PhD project.

The PhD will be based in the School of Mathematics and Physics and will be supervised by Dr Vincenzo Tamma and Professor Alberto Marino, Interim Director, Centre for Quantum Research and Technology at the University of Oklahoma, US.

The work on this project could involve:

  • Multiphoton interference with squeezed light
  • High precision measurements beyond the classical regime
  • Quantum sensing technologies for single and multi-parameter estimation

A wide range of applications in security, navigation, environmental sensing, biomedical imaging and fundamental tests in cosmology and gravitation require quantum enhanced measurements with higher and higher precision of physical parameters. In particular, quantum interference and quantum correlations can be used to enhance the accuracy of measurements beyond any classical capabilities.   

The overarching goal of this project is to introduce a completely innovative versatile platform for multi-parameter quantum sensing technologies based on quantum interferometry with easily accessible and scalable resources and avoiding the need of any complex measurement procedure. The project aims at enabling access to the full metrological power of multiphoton interference with squeezed light beyond any classical capability in order to facilitate the development of quantum technologies for applications in high-precision imaging and sensing. The project aims at introducing novel interferometric schemes based on the use of squeezed sources and “ad hoc” measurement techniques for quantum sensing and on benchmarking the quantum-enhanced sensitivity depending on how unknown parameters are encoded in arbitrary optical networks. The PhD student will benefit from the interdisciplinary experience of the supervisory team and from the international environment within Quantum Science and Technology Hub at the University of Portsmouth as well as a highly interactive research group in quantum technologies and quantum optics. She/he will also benefit from the expertise of prominent scientists and collaborators in research areas related with the project at the interface between quantum optics, quantum metrology, bioengineering, and quantum information. In particular, she/he will interact with leading international experimentalists collaborating with the research team toward the experimental realization of the theoretical results foreseen in the project.

Fees and funding

Visit the research subject area page for fees and funding information for this project.

Funding availability: Self-funded PhD students only. 

PhD full-time and part-time courses are eligible for the UK Government Doctoral Loan (UK and EU students only).

Bench fees

Some PhD projects may include additional fees – known as bench fees – for equipment and other consumables, and these will be added to your standard tuition fee. Speak to the supervisory team during your interview about any additional fees you may have to pay. Please note, bench fees are not eligible for discounts and are non-refundable

Entry requirements

You'll need a good first degree from an internationally recognised university (minimum upper second class or equivalent, depending on your chosen course) or a Master’s degree in an appropriate subject. In exceptional cases, we may consider equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications. English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.

Highly talented and ambitious graduates with an excellent Master degree in Physics with strong interest in quantum optics, quantum metrology, and quantum technologies.

How to apply

When you are ready to apply, please follow the 'Apply now' link on the Physics PhD subject area page and select the link for the relevant intake. Make sure you submit a personal statement, proof of your degrees and grades, details of two referees, proof of your English language proficiency and an up-to-date CV. Our ‘How to Apply’ page offers further guidance on the PhD application process.