Quantum optimal control for symmetry-based NMR sequences

About the Project

Supervisors:

Professor Marina Carravetta m.carravetta@soton.ac.uk

Professor Malcolm Levitt mhl@soton.ac.uk

Professor Tim Freegarde timf@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:

Symmetry is a powerful tool for selection of NMR interaction and creation of correlated spin states. Many exquisite experiments are based on analytical calculation via average Hamiltonian or Floquet theory. A step change in efficiency and robustness may be obtained by combining Hamiltonian symmetry, periodicity and quantum optimal control.

Symmetry-based sequences have long been used in NMR, especially on solid materials undergoing magic-angle spinning (MAS NMR), for the control of the average Hamiltonian and the selection of which spin interaction should be recoupled. These, in turn, can be used to create multi-spin correlated states, provide filtering of specific parameters and answer structural questions about the materials being investigated. Similar approaches have more recently been demonstrated to be useful also for liquid state NMR. Methods have often a moderate tolerance to experimental imperfections and mis-set of parameters and experimental conditions, and the full analytical approach struggles to be useful when the first order Hamiltonian does not provide a faithful description of the system. This work will aim to use full numerical calculations, as well as guiding symmetry and periodicity principles, for the development of quantum optimal control (QOC) symmetry-inspired sequences. The utilization of symmetry and periodicity will guide the QOC optimization, with an expectation of massive time reduction, and the possibility to tackle more demanding spin systems or nuclei with spin larger than 1/2. Attention will be also on pattern recognition on the new QOC methods, which may potentially lead to the discovery of possibly new classes of symmetry-based sequences, with a semi-analytical description of their operation. Possible industrial sponsorship is under consideration.

For more information, please contact the supervisor: Professor Marina Carravetta m.carravetta@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.