Building heterogenous quantum-dot–atom repeaters: photon generation, storage and conversion for quantum networks

The project will develop hybrid QD–Rb interfaces for frequency conversion and subsequent storage of single photons in warm rubidium vapour. High-quality epitaxial III–V sources from established collaborators will provide the photonic input; the student will build and characterise the QD–vapour interface itself, and characterize it using quantum-optical methods. Theory and modelling of EIT and four-wave mixing will guide the experiments, alongside group work on nanophotonic design.

The student will work across device fabrication, cryogenic QD optics and atomic-vapour experiments, gaining hands-on experience in optical-setup design, III–V semiconductor physics, atomic physics, quantum optics and numerical modelling. The research targets scalable components for quantum networks and sensing, with regular interaction with partners in the UK, Europe and the US. Part of the project sits within a University of Manchester initiative on deployed testing of quantum telecommunications over metro-links led by Dr Zajac, giving the work a direct path from bench-top physics to applied network trials.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline. We are looking for a motivated candidate with genuine curiosity about the research area and the drive to take a project forward independently.

Funding

This 3.5-year PhD project is fully funded; students who are eligible to pay tuition fees at the Home rate are eligible to apply. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026/27) and tuition fees will be paid. We expect the stipend to increase each year. The start date is January 2027.

We recommend that you apply early as the advert may be removed before the deadline.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it).
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).

Funding Notes

This 3.5-year PhD project is fully funded; students who are eligible to pay tuition fees at the Home rate are eligible to apply. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026/27) and tuition fees will be paid. We expect the stipend to increase each year. The start date is January 2027.

We recommend that you apply early as the advert may be removed before the deadline.