Interfacing semiconductor quantum dots with alkali-atom-based quantum memories

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Dr Patrick Ledingham

The future Quantum Internet requires efficient devices that store and recall arbitrary quantum states of light. These devices, known as quantum memories, can synchronise entanglement operations between distant locations. This project focuses on the development of alkali-atom-based quantum memories and interfacing them with semiconductor quantum dot single photon sources.

Realising future quantum-enhanced technologies such as quantum computers and the quantum internet will require developing scalable quantum memories for light. Alkali atoms in the hot vapour phase offer a low-cost platform for efficient light-matter interactions that can be implemented at the industrial scale (e.g. UK-based quantum company ORCA computing). Quantum dot technology has recently emerged as a world leader of single photon delivery with a strong presence in quantum industry (e.g. UK-based quantum company Aegiq).

In this project, you'll develop and build next-generation rubidium-based quantum memories and interface them with semiconductor quantum dot single photon sources. You'll gain hands-on experience building atomic experimental setups, characterising their performance, and addressing outstanding issues associated with storage time and efficiency.

You'll also gain experience with semiconductor quantum dots, operating them in cryogenically cooled environments, with opportunities to engage with the state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities to enable full control of the quantum dot devices. You will interconnect these hybrid devices to demonstrate local quantum networking protocols, with scope to interface these devices with deployed optical fibre networks. paving the way for building global quantum networks.

You'll have the flexibility to follow your particular interests and determine your own direction of travel. There will be opportunities to engage with industrial partners and collaborators in the UK and abroad.

Entry requirements

You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, with a strong background in quantum physics.

Desirable skills:

• familiarity with semiconductor physics, quantum optics and photonics
• interest in experimental development

Fees and funding

Full scholarships include tuition fees, a stipend at the UKRI rate plus 10% ORC enhancement tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years (totalling £22,858 for 2025/26, rising annually) and a budget of £4200 for things like conference travel.

UK, EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for scholarships. CSC students are eligible for fee waivers. Funding for other international applicants is very limited and highly competitive. Overseas students who have secured or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.

For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.

How to apply

Apply now

You need to:

• choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• select Full time or Part time
• search for programme PhD ORC (7097)
• add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application

Applications should include:

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