2D Materials as Quantum Sensors

About the Project

Supervisors:

Dr Makars Šiškins m.siskins@soton.ac.uk

This project, within the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering at the University of Southampton (https://qte.ac.uk), carries a UKRI TechExpert enhanced annual stipend around £31k for UK students. While researching the project outlined below you will also receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.

Project Description:

Quantum materials such as superconducting magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene exhibit exceptional sensitivity to external stimuli, offering a unique platform for quantum sensing. This project develops 2D material-based membrane sensors for single-photon detection and noise spectroscopy, integrating nanoelectromechanical and quantum photonic functionalities into a unified, energy-efficient platform for next-generation quantum technologies.

The unique properties in novel quantum materials, like 2D materials and their twisted bilayers, offer exceptional opportunities for emerging technologies, including quantum light sources (single-photon emitters), quantum sensing (ODMR magnetometry and single-photon detection) and quantum scanning probe technologies (quantum twisting microscope). Among these, magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene (MATBG) stands out as a moiré superconductor that exhibits extreme sensitivity to external perturbations, such as strain, magnetic field, or light, particularly near its superconducting critical point. Remarkably, when operated close to this transition, absorption of a single near-infrared photon can destroy superconductivity, producing a measurable voltage spike. Building on this principle, this project will explore suspended MATBG and related 2D material membranes as a multifunctional platform that combines nanoelectromechanical and quantum photonic functionalities. Such devices can reach single-photon sensitivity through energy-efficient tuning of the superconducting state via strain or electrostatic gating, rather than conventional biasing schemes. Leveraging these mechanisms, the project aims to develop quantum sensors for single-photon detection with unprecedented precision, and probes for dynamic noise spectroscopy, enabling new pathways for quantum metrology. The researcher will investigate phase dynamics and transition fluctuations in suspended twisted bilayer 2D materials, identifying new sensing and control mechanisms relevant to quantum technologies. The PhD candidate will gain expertise in advanced nanofabrication, low-temperature optomechanical measurements, and phase-diagram mapping, collaborating with internationally recognised groups in 2D materials and nanomechanics. By the end of the project, the candidate will possess deep expertise in the fundamental physics of quantum matter and its transformative potential for quantum sensing and metrology.

For more information, please contact the supervisor: Dr Makars Šiškins m.siskins@soton.ac.uk

Entry Requirements:

Undergraduate degree (at least UK 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent).

Closing Date:

31 July 2026. International applicants must apply before 31 March 2026.

Funding:

See funding notes below.

How to Apply:

Please apply via the online portal and select:

• Programme type: Research
• Academic year: 2026/27
• Full time or part time
• Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences

Search for programme PhD Quantum Tech Eng

Please add the name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application.

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts/ certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)

We are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity and give full consideration to applicants seeking part-time study. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.

Engineering (12)
Physics (29)

Funding Notes

Funding on a competitive basis.

UK students receive a 4-year UKRI TechExpert tax-free stipend around £31k per year (UKRI minimum +10k); studentships at the UKRI base rate are available for EU and Horizon Europe students and International students. Overseas students who have or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.