PhD in satellite quantum communication

About the Project

The Edinburgh Mostly Quantum Lab (EMQL) offers a PhD position in satellite quantum communication. Quantum communication allows for unconditionally secure encryption of messages. Terrestrial quantum networks are limited in range due to the quantum signal loss in optical fibres. This limitation can be overcome with satellites, equipped with quantum transmitters or receivers, that exchange keys with optical ground stations. This PhD project can be targeted at one of two ongoing projects: optical payload design for an ESA-funded project on quantum time transfer together with commercial partners, or the design and operation of a ground-based entanglement transmitter for uplink transmission to the Canadian QEYSSat mission via the Quantum Communication Hub's Optical Ground Station (HOGS) facility located on Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh campus. The project will be carried out under the umbrella of the HWU-led UK Quantum Technology Hub in Integrated Quantum Networks (IQN), an EPSRC funded £21M consortium of university and industry partners. There will be ample opportunities for travel, collaboration with partners within and beyond the Hub, as well as skills training and outreach activities.

The EMQL was established at Heriot-Watt in 2015, and currently consists of a diverse group of 4 postdocs and 5 PhD students. Our labs are part of the HWU quantum technology facilities, a shared state-of-the-art space that combines photonic quantum technology research with a range of physical architectures such as solid-state photonics, downconversion, integrated photonics, and fabrication. Our research spans all areas of photonic quantum information processing, from foundations to communications, computing and metrology, and there is freedom to explore areas beyond satellite quantum communication. While the project is primarily focused on experimental quantum optics, theory, numerical and computational components can be accommodated.

All applicants must have or expect to have a 1st class MChem, MPhys, MSci, MEng or equivalent degree by Autumn 2025. Selection will be based on academic excellence and research potential, and all short-listed applicants will be interviewed in person or online.

Funding Notes

There are multiple routes for funding available: 3.5-year EPSRC DTP stipends, university stipends, and also 4-year stipends in the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Applied Quantum Technologies. Allocation depends on the candidate's background and academic profile.