Manufacture of photonic and quantum technologies via ultra-precision diamond machining

Supervisory Team: Prof James Gates

About the project

This project will develop the core components of superconducting, photonic and atom/ion trap quantum systems using ultra-precision diamond machining. The project will work with leaders in the field (academia and industry) to create vacuum systems with integrated photonics and electrical functionality.

Quantum Technologies present new challenges for manufacturing engineering. Southampton has been developing ultra-precision machining systems for the scalable manufacture of superconducting and atom/ion trap quantum systems. These components are the kernel of quantum sensing and quantum computing systems.

You will work with leaders in the field (academia and industry) to create vacuum systems with integrated photonics. In this project, you will design, fabricate, and test atom and ion trap systems while working with experimentalists to demonstrate quantum sensing and computing.

If you are interested in a PhD looking to do computer modelling and have the required skills, the project can also be adjusted for this.

Areas include:

• development of atom and ion trap cells using diamond milling systems. You will create miniature vacuum cells from silicon, silica (glass) and sapphire. These will contain optical windows, integrated mirrors and electrical and vacuum feedthroughs.
• fabrication of integrated optical waveguides and large area tilted Bragg gratings to couple light out of integrated waveguides to form free-space beams for micro-atom traps.
• development of freeform micro-optics (lenses, mirrors, resonators, etc) enabling the creation of more compact (SWaP-C) and more efficient quantum photonic systems.

If you are interested in quantum technologies, photonics and micro-fabrication, you would be highly suitable for this project. You will benefit from our world-leading expertise in these fields and enjoy working in a highly supportive environment in our Southampton group and collaborating with partner groups within the UK National Quantum Technology Programme.

Entry requirements

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent.

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. Chinese Scholarship Council funded 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.

How to apply

Apply now

Please apply via the online portal and select:

• programme type: Research
• academic year: 2026/27
• if you will be full time or part time
• faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences
• search for programme PhD ORC (7097)
• 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)