Reconfigurable origami phononic metamaterials for on-chip quantum acoustics

About the Project

Supervisors:

Dr Tanmoy Mukhopadhyay T.Mukhopadhyay@soton.ac.uk

Dr Susmita Naskar S.Naskar@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:

How about building programmable acoustic highways on a chip! Using origami-inspired phononic lattices, we will switch topological edge paths to route phonons between quantum devices with low loss and high isolation. The project includes multi-scale computational modelling and MEMS fabrication, leading to scalable quantum sensing, multiplexed readout, and adaptive routing.

Quantum technologies need reliable ways to move information on a chip without adding noise or loss. This project tackles that challenge by creating reconfigurable pathways for microscale elastic waves (phonons). We will use origami-inspired metamaterials whose fold state changes stiffness and bandgaps, so protected edge channels can be switched on or off to route signals between devices. The goal is low insertion loss, high isolation, and stable operation from room temperature to cryogenic conditions. You will begin with multi-scale modelling to link fold kinematics to elastic properties and band structure. Using semi-analytical spectral elements and Bloch analysis, you will design lattices that support switchable topological transport. You will then fabricate MEMS prototypes in low-loss materials such as silicon nitride or aluminium nitride, add interdigitated transducers for excitation, and characterise performance with RF network analysis and laser Doppler vibrometry. Later stages integrate the routers with quantum acoustic elements, for example, surface acoustic wave cavities or spin defect platforms. The outcome is a high-impact programmable acoustic component for modular quantum systems that enables scalable sensing, multiplexed readout, and adaptive routing, along with an open computational toolkit for further design and optimization. Training covers elastic wave physics, nanofabrication, cryogenic measurement, and data-driven optimisation. You will have access to world-class facilities such as cleanrooms, RF labs, vibrometry, and cryostats, and work across mechanics, electronics, and quantum device groups. There are opportunities to engage with our established industry partners and collaborators in RF components, quantum networking, and cryogenic metrology.

For more information, please contact the supervisor: Dr Tanmoy Mukhopadhyay T.Mukhopadhyay@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.