Towards the Miniaturisation of Quantum Gravimeters and Gradiometers

About the Project

Supervisors:

• Prof Ivette Fuentes Guridi i.fuentes-guridi@soton.ac.uk
• Prof Hendrik Ulbricht H.Ulbricht@soton.ac.uk
• Prof Alexander Belyaev A.Belyaev@soton.ac.uk
• Francesco Shankar F.Shankar@soton.ac.uk

Project Title:

Towards the Miniaturisation of Quantum Gravimeters and Gradiometers

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:

This project explores novel methods to measure the local gravitational field and its gradient using phononic excitations in a Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC). The student will develop theoretical models for next-generation gravity sensors that exploit phononic mode mixing and particle creation to enhance measurement sensitivity.

We previously introduced a scheme to measure gravitational acceleration using two differently oriented BECs (or cavities) on length scales of approximately 200 μm. The measurement relies on differences in the fundamental frequencies of phononic modes arising from the deformation of the trapping potential (or cavity length) under gravity. Such a device can be miniaturised without loss of precision, enabling access to gravitational field strengths beyond the Newtonian regime. The aim of this PhD project is to extend this framework beyond phase-based measurements by enabling a full Bogoliubov transformation of the phononic quantum states. This is expected to lead to a significant increase in measurement precision and open new avenues for quantum-enhanced gravimetry and gradiometry. The theoretical models developed will be used to interpret and guide experiments on BECs in collaboration with the experimental group of Professor Christopher Foot at the University of Oxford. The student will gain expertise in quantum metrology and sensing, working at the interface of quantum theory and experimental quantum technologies. The student will be based within a vibrant theoretical physics group at the University of Southampton, with opportunities for collaboration with experimental teams, participation in seminars, and specialised training in mathematical physics and quantum theory. Entry Requirements Essential: • A strong undergraduate or master’s degree in theoretical physics, mathematics, or a closely related field. • Solid knowledge of quantum theory. • Demonstrated ability in mathematical and theoretical reasoning and problem-solving. Desirable: • Familiarity with quantum information, quantum metrology, or related areas. • Interest in connecting theoretical models with experimental tests.

For more information, please contact the supervisor: Prof Ivette Fuentes Guridi i.fuentes-guridi@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:

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.

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.