Vortex Dynamics in Ultracold Quantum Mixtures

About the Project

Project to start Oct 2026. Applications accepted until position is filled.

In a quantum many-body system the interactions between the constituent microscopic particles lead to emergent macroscopic phenomena. Such macroscopic phenomena include superfluidity (fluid flow without viscosity) and superconductivity (conduction of electricity without resistance). Novel phases such as high-temperature superconductivity form the basis of quantum materials, where useful emergent properties can lead to new technologies. Studying the dynamics of vortices (quantum whirlpools) can give key insight into the inner workings of these systems. Superfluids formed of ultracold atoms provide an extremely clean and well-controlled system for studies of collective quantum behaviour. They enable exquisite control over interactions, geometry, and rotation (vorticity). Importantly, in superfluids formed of mixtures of ultracold atoms we can tune the interactions to emphasize quantum effects such as fluctuations.

A key aim of this PhD project is to explore quantum-fluctuation dominated regimes where the behaviour of the superfluid depends on its inherent quantum nature, driving our fundamental understanding of superfluidity as a collective quantum phenomenon. Research goals include (1) investigating the role of quantum fluctuations in vortex nucleation and subsequent dynamics, and (2) investigating quantum-fluctuation-mediated interactions between two superfluids.

The successful student will join the Quantum Fluids research team, run by Dr Kali Wilson. They will work closely with the supervisor and other team members on a state-of-the-art experimental apparatus designed to explore vortex dynamics in binary superfluids formed of ultracold rubidium and potassium atoms. The successful student will also acquire practical skills in the areas of quantum technologies, optics and atomic physics. These skills include working with lasers, designing optical systems, high-resolution imaging and state-of-the-art image processing techniques, cooling and trapping atoms, as well as electronics and mechanical design.

Applicants should have a good first degree (minimum BSc 2:1, Masters preferred) or equivalent in Physics or a closely related subject. A background in quantum optics or atomic physics is desirable. Practical lab skills (e.g. optics, electronics) or programming experience would be highly useful but not mandatory.

If this sounds exciting to you and you would like to hear more, please get in touch with Kali Wilson (kali.wilson@strath.ac.uk).

For more information on our recent research see https://eqop.phys.strath.ac.uk/vsf-projects/vsf-main/

Information on the Physics Department’s EDI initiatives can be found here https://www.strath.ac.uk/science/physics/edi/

Funding Notes

Fully-funded scholarship for 3.5 years covers all university tuition fees (at UK level) and an annual tax-free stipend. International students are also eligible to apply, but they will need to find other funding sources to cover the difference between the home and international tuition fees. Exceptional international candidates may be provided funding for this difference. Please contact the supervisor for details.