Quantum Reservoir Computing for Photonic and Quantum Materials Modelling

About the Project

Supervisors:

Professor Marian Florescu m.florescu@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:

Quantum physics and artificial intelligence are converging to redefine how light–matter systems are explored and engineered. This project will develop Quantum Reservoir Computing as a new theoretical and computational framework, exploiting the dynamics of quantum systems to achieve efficient learning, prediction, and inverse design of photonic and quantum materials.

The research will advance Quantum Reservoir Computing (QRC) as a powerful computational paradigm for modelling and designing complex quantum and photonic systems. Rather than relying on data-intensive or brute-force numerical methods, QRC uses the intrinsic dynamics of quantum systems, including coherence, memory, and nonlinearity, as natural resources for information processing and learning. The project will focus on rigorous theoretical modelling and large-scale numerical simulations that reveal how quantum dynamics can perform tasks analogous to neural networks. • The first stage will establish physically interpretable algorithms capable of capturing strongly correlated and open quantum systems. • The second stage will explore quantum neuromorphic architectures in silico, using computational models of superconducting, photonic, and hybrid reservoirs to identify routes to energy-efficient learning. • The final stage will apply these frameworks to the inverse design of photonic and quantum structures, demonstrating how QRC can accelerate discovery and optimisation entirely within a computational setting. The Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) is a world-leading photonics institute with over 90 laboratories and around 200 researchers working across all areas of optics and photonics. Its training programme includes courses in photonics, computational methods, and professional development, preparing students for careers in both academia and industry. Within this project, there are opportunities to develop advanced skills in high-performance computing, numerical simulation, machine learning, and quantum theory, with access to large HPC/GPU clusters. The ORC promotes an inclusive and collaborative research culture and holds an Athena SWAN award recognising its commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Applications from all backgrounds are encouraged.

For more information, please contact the supervisor: Professor Marian Florescu m.florescu@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
• If you will be 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 of around £31k per year (UKRI minimum +£10k); studentships at the UKRI minimum 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.