Electrical measurements of quantum-state dynamics of individual molecules

Research Group: Center for Condensed Matter Physics
Number of Students: 1
Length of Study in Years: 3 years
Full-time Project: yes

Funding

This studentship is funded via a Queen Mary Studentship.

• Available to home applicants and international students.
• Applicant required to start in September 2024.
• The studentship arrangement will cover home tuition fees and provide an annual stipend for up to three years (Currently set for 2023/24 as £20,622).
• International students note that this studentship only covers home tuition fees and students will need to cover the difference in fees between the home and overseas basic rate from external sources. 

Project Description

Quantum molecular electronics is a cutting-edge research field at the intersection of physical chemistry, nanoscience, and quantum information. The study of the quantum-mechanical states of a molecule and their dynamics (i.e., how the states evolve in time) can teach us new fundamental science, as well as inform us on the suitability of these materials for processing quantum information for new computing, communication, and sensing technologies.

This PhD project, based in the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences at Queen Mary University, will explore the fundamental physics of electrical transport through molecular and two-dimensional systems using advanced devices and measurement techniques. The candidate will develop all-electrical protocols for measuring the excited-state lifetimes of individual molecules. The aim of the project is to assess the feasibility of using molecules as qubits, the fundamental building blocks of quantum computing, and enhance our understanding of phenomena such as electron-phonon and spin-phonon coupling. The project will involve learning nanofabrication techniques, how to perform cryogenic electrical measurements, and data analysis.

Supervisor Contact Details:

For informal enquiries about this position, please contact Dr James Thomas

E-mail: j.o.thomas@qmul.ac.uk

Application Method:

To apply for this studentship please follow the instructions detailed on the following webpage:

https://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/subjects/physics.html

Deadline for application - Applications accepted all year round

Requirements

• The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good Honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.
• If English is not your first language you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of 6.0 in Writing and 5.5 in all sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking)

Supervisor Contact Details:

For informal enquiries about this position, please contact Dr. James Thomas

E-mail: j.o.thomas@qmul.ac.uk

Application Method:

To apply for this studentship and for entry on to the PhD Physics programme (Full Time) please visit:

https://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/subjects/physics.html

Deadline for application - 31st of January 2024

SPCS Academics: Dr James Thomas