Ion trap quantum technology with superconducting microwave circuits

Closing date for applications: 31^st July 2013

In our new laboratory at the University of Sussex, we are building a pioneering ion trap experiment. We plan to micro-fabricate an ion trap on the surface of a superconducting chip. A single or a few electrons/ions will be captured and manipulated with great accuracy, at the quantum level. The ion trap is also designed as a microwave transmission-line. It will enable the interaction of the trapped particles with other remote quantum systems. Our novel technology has fundamental applications in circuit-quantum electrodynamics, quantum computation, and high-precision mass spectrometry.

We are recruiting a motivated candidate with strong interest in developing experimental skills. The student will be actively involved in the final design and fabrication of the ion trap, particularly in the implementation of a chip-based superconducting magnetic field source. The trap will be loaded with a single electron and its interaction with a remote superconducting microwave cavity will be investigated. Experience in design/implementation of a magnetic field source with superconductors, ion traps, or microwave circuits, is advantageous but not strictly required.

The project is supervised by Dr Jose Verdu. The research group co-operates intensely with quantum theory experts in the department of Physics & Astronomy.

This is a full-time research project.

Award Amount
3 years of stipend at £13,590 (2012/13) and a fee waiver. EU (non-UK) students are eligible for a fee waiver only.

Eligibility
Applicants should have a 1st class or good 2(i) degree in Physics or a related subject.

The position is fully-funded (fees and stipend) for UK students. Other EU students may be funded for fees only and will need to find living costs. (See http://www.epsrc.ac.uk/funding/students/Pages/eligibility.aspx)

Procedure
To apply, use the Sussex University on-line admissions via the Apply button below.

State in the Awards (Funding) section of the on-line form that you are applying for “the EPSRC-funded PhD position on Ion trap quantum technology with Dr Jose Verdu”.

Confirm that you have submitted your application on-line by sending an email to Dr Jose Verdu at j.l.verdu-galiana@sussex.ac.uk

Timetable
Deadline: 31st July 2013 is the latest possible date for applications. However, we encourage early application because we will appoint as soon as an applicant of the right calibre is found.

Start date: The start date is negotiable, but it must be 31st August 2013 at the very latest.

Further Information
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/amo/research/electronsinquantumcircuits

Dr Jose Verdu-Galiana: http://www.sussex.ac.uk/profiles/237112 

The University of Sussex is committed to equality of opportunity.