MEMS/NEMS-integrated ultralow stand-by power quantum circuits

About the Project

Supervisors:

Dr Yoshishige Tsuchiya yt2@ecs.soton.ac.uk

Prof John McBride J.W.Mcbride@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:

Novel Micro/Nano-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS/NEMS) switches will be developed to significantly reduce overall power consumption of integrated quantum circuits. The MEMS/NEMS switches will be optimised for low temperature operation and will be integrated with existing quantum circuits to evaluate the energy efficiency of the systems.

This project aims to develop RF/DC MEMS/NEMS switches to work as power gating devices for quantum circuits at low temperatures. MEMS/NEMS switches are known to have considerable advantages over conventional semiconductor switches like Field-Effect-Transistors (FETs) as power gating devices thanks to their ultralow current at the off-state due to mechanical separation. The design of the MEMS/NEMS switches will be optimised for their operation at low temperatures, and the devices will be prototyped by using cleanroom facilities in Southampton. The project also includes the study of contact materials suitable for low temperature operation of MEMS/NEMS switches. The optimised MEMS/NEMS switches will be integrated into existing quantum circuits such as quantum computers or quantum sensors, and then the improvement of the power consumption for the overall quantum systems will be evaluated. The supervisory team has strong links with research institutions in Japan and will seek further collaboration opportunities during the project, potentially with industries. Successful development of low temperature MEMS/NEMS switches will make a significant contribution to reduce power consumption of quantum circuits and computers and thus make quantum technology more accessible and environmentally friendly.

For more information, please contact the supervisor: Dr Yoshishige Tsuchiya yt2@ecs.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.

Funding Notes

Funding is 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.