Postgraduate research project

Interfacing semiconductor quantum dots with alkali-atom-based quantum memories

Funding
Competition funded View fees and funding
Type of degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Entry requirements
2:1 honours degree View full entry requirements
Faculty graduate school
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Closing date

About the project

The future Quantum Internet requires efficient devices that store and recall arbitrary quantum states of light. These devices, known as quantum memories, can synchronise entanglement operations between distant locations. This project focuses on the development of alkali-atom-based quantum memories and interfacing them with semiconductor quantum dot single photon sources.

Realising future quantum-enhanced technologies such as quantum computers and the quantum internet will require developing scalable quantum memories for light. Alkali atoms in the hot vapour phase offer a low-cost platform for efficient light-matter interactions that can be implemented at the industrial scale (e.g. UK-based quantum company ORCA computing). Quantum dot technology has recently emerged as a world leader of single photon delivery with a strong presence in quantum industry (e.g. UK-based quantum company Aegiq).

In this project, you'll develop and build next-generation rubidium-based quantum memories and interface them with semiconductor quantum dot single photon sources. You'll gain hands-on experience building atomic experimental setups, characterising their performance, and addressing outstanding issues associated with storage time and efficiency.

You'll also gain experience with semiconductor quantum dots, operating them in cryogenically cooled environments, with opportunities to engage with the state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities to enable full control of the quantum dot devices. You will interconnect these hybrid devices to demonstrate local quantum networking protocols, with scope to interface these devices with deployed optical fibre networks. paving the way for building global quantum networks. 

You'll have the flexibility to follow your particular interests and determine your own direction of travel. There will be opportunities to engage with industrial partners and collaborators in the UK and abroad.