Quantum spin liquids in Ce pyrochlores

About the Project

Quantum spin liquids (QSLs) are a state of matter predicted to be found in magnetic materials with strong quantum fluctuations. The spins in most magnetic materials form regular repeating patterns at sufficiently low temperature, but QSLs are very different. Instead of settling into a fixed configuration the system exists in a superposition of many possible magnetic states at once. QSLs represent a form of matter outside our ordinary understanding, with strong quantum entanglement.

There has been a concerted effort to identify materials which realize quantum spin liquid states in the laboratory, and many candidates have been suggested. In the last few years, certain materials based on Cerium (Ce) have emerged as some of the strongest candidates. The type of QSL which is predicted to appear in these materials is a particularly interesting one where the low energy excitations of the material mimic the theory of Quantum Electrodynamics (QED), but where magnetic monopoles exist, and photons are slow.

This is a theoretical project, funded by the Leverhulme Trust, with the goal of designing experiments which can test whether emergent QED exists in Ce-based magnetic materials. You will learn the theory behind QSLs and mathematical approaches such as lattice gauge theory. Using these approaches, you will make predictions for how QSLs can be recognized in experiments.

Application Method:

To apply for this studentship and for entry on to the Physics programme (Full Time) please follow the instructions detailed on the following webpage:

https://www.qmul.ac.uk/spcs/phdresearch/application-process/#apply

Deadline for application – applications will be reviewed on an on-going basis and offers will be made on a first come first served basis

Supervisor Contact Details:

For informal enquiries about this position, please contact Dr Owen Benton

Email: j.o.benton@qmul.ac.uk

Requirements

• The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good Honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.
• If English is not your first language you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of 6.0 in all categories. English language certificate will be required at application.

SPCS Academics: Dr Owen Benton

Funding Notes

Funding is provided via the Leverhulme Trust.

• Available to home applicants only.
• Applicant required to start in September 2026