Spectroscopic signatures of topological quantum matter (Ref: PH/IR-SF1/2026)

About the Project

The idea that strongly interacting spins in a solid can evade ordering down to zero temperature by forming a quantum spin liquid (QSL) has a long history [1]. QSLs exhibit topological order and a plethora of remarkable quantum phenomena, including long-range entanglement, topological degeneracy, emergent Majorana fermions and gauge fields [2,3]. The control and manipulation of such properties in condensed matter systems hold promise for future quantum technologies and computing applications [4].

The goal of the project is to address the central challenge currently in the field: How one can diagnose emergent fermions and gauge fields in real materials? The student will combine numerical algorithms (such as coupled cluster methods, large-scale exact diagonalization) and modern statistical sampling methods (based on typicality and thermalisation ideas) with the end goal to extract dynamical response functions that are measured directly in spectroscopic experiments, such as inelastic neutron scattering, Raman scattering and electron spin resonance [5]. The ensuing predictions will be compared to ongoing experiments on available candidate materials (such as a-Li2irO3, NaLi2O3 and a-RuCl3), and will lay the ground for quantitative diagnostics and the broader phenomenology of QSLs.

The PhD student will endeavour into one of the most vibrant fields of condensed matter, acquire expertise in numerical and analytical methods, and work on experimentally driven problems. The project is ideal for students with a strong interest in quantum condensed matter physics, topological phases of matter and numerical algorithms. A background in condensed matter physics is desirable. The project will be mainly numerical, although analytical skills will also be useful.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:
Ioannis Rousochatzakis i.rousochatzakis@lboro.ac.uk
https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/physics/staff/ioannis-rousochatzakis/

Entry requirements:
Students should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Physics or a related subject.

English language requirements:
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Bench fees required: No

Closing date of advert: 30th September 2026

Start date: October 2026, January 2027

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years

Fee band: 2025/26 Band RB (UK £5,006, International £28,600)

How to apply:
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select Physics. Please quote the advertised reference number: PH/IR-SF1/2026 in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit a CV and the minimum supporting documents.
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. Please note that this criteria is used for both funded and self-funded projects.
Please note, applications for this project are considered on an ongoing basis once submitted and the project may be withdrawn prior to the application deadline, if a suitable candidate is chosen for the project.

Project search terms:
computational physics, quantum mechanics, solid state physics, condensed matter physics quantum magnetism frustrated magnetism spin liquids

Email Address Sci:
sci-pgr@lboro.ac.uk