Quantum frequency conversion with alkali atoms: linking trapped ions to telecom networks

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Dr Patrick Ledingham

About the project

The future Quantum Internet requires coherent transfer of quantum states between disparate platforms. This project develops an alkali-atom-based quantum frequency converter to link trapped-ion quantum processors with telecommunication-wavelength networks. Enabling efficient interfacing between ions and long-distance fiber links is a critical step toward scalable, distributed quantum systems.

Realising future quantum-enhanced technologies, such as the quantum internet will require developing efficient interfaces between quantum processors and telecom fiber networks. Hot alkali vapors offer a low-cost, scalable platform for light-matter interactions that can be implemented at industrial scale (e.g. ORCA Computing). Trapped-ion systems are among the most advanced platforms for quantum computing, offering long coherence times and high-fidelity operations with a strong presence in quantum industry (e.g. Oxford Ionics). However, the photons they emit typically lie in the near-ultraviolet range, making them incompatible with telecommunication networks.

In this project, you will develop and build next-generation rubidium-based quantum frequency convertors and interface them with trapped strontium ions.

As a PhD candidate, you will gain hands-on experience building atomic experimental setups, characterising their performance, and addressing outstanding issues associated with efficiency and noise.

You will also gain experience working with trapped strontium ions through external collaborators, operating ion traps in ultra-high-vacuum environments and using laser systfiber networks, paving the way for global quantum networks.

Within this project, you will have flexibility to follow your 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.

Ideally you will have:

• a strong background in quantum physics
• familiarity with atomic physics, quantum optics and photonics
• a keen 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.

Chinese Scholarship Council (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.

Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

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).