2025 Projects

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Professor Jonathan Leach

Project Description: This PhD project aims to develop a comprehensive toolbox for quantum imaging, addressing performance and integration challenges in practical systems. It will include components, software, and methods to enable high-resolution, noise-robust imaging using silicon sensors sensitive to mid-infrared wavelengths. The project leverages quantum entanglement, induced coherence, advanced single-photon cameras, and novel computational algorithms. Current nonlinear systems face resolution and field-of-view limits due to crystal constraints. By using spatial and temporal structured light modes, this project seeks to overcome these limitations, applying successful techniques from conventional microscopy to enhance nonlinear quantum imaging performance.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Professor Paul Griffin

Industry Partner: Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics

Project Description: This project will involve the study of optical atomic clocks, with the goal of demonstrating a compact and accurate atomic sensor. This project will build on the joint expertise at Strathclyde and a the Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics to develop a compact atomic clock systems for portable operation, while providing performance beyond the commercial state-of-the-art. Specific areas of expertise to be explored at the construction and development of narrow-linewidth lasers for low-noise interrogation, optimised optical system design for compact optical clocks, maximising the signal-to-noise ratio of background-free detection channels, and a broad exploration of atom-light interactions in atomic gasses. Our groups have strong links to NPL, Quantum Technology Hubs, and UK and international collaborators, which will help drive the success of this ambitious experiment that incorporates atomics, optics, integrated photonics, and real-world applications.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Dr James McGilligan

Industry Partner: Kelvin Nanotechnology

Project Description: This PhD project focuses on advancing MEMS atomic sensors, which use atomic properties to measure time, magnetic fields, and inertial forces with exceptional precision. The work will address challenges in microfabrication, pressure control, on-chip electronics, and optical integration to enhance device performance and scalability. In collaboration with academic and industry partners, the researcher will develop new vapour cell designs and fabrication methods, integrating them into quantum sensors such as magnetometers, clocks, and memories. The project offers hands-on experience in quantum technologies, microfabrication, and precision measurement, with access to world-class facilities and expertise at the University of Strathclyde and Kelvin Nanotechnology.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Dr Adrian Kantian

Project Description: This PhD project aims to advance ultra-cold lattice gases—neutral atoms in optical lattices—as powerful analog quantum simulators. Using cutting-edge many-body theory tools like MPS+MF and pDMRG, the candidate will design experiments to: (1) simulate non-equilibrium dynamics that generate ordered many-body states above critical temperature (Tc); (2) explore metastable, mixed-dimensional states to realize analogues of high-Tc superconductivity; and (3) develop entropy-reduction schemes to enhance simulator efficiency. The project targets breakthroughs in simulating Bose-Einstein condensates, Mott insulators, and superconductors, offering deep engagement with quantum many-body physics and the potential to outperform classical simulations in complex quantum systems.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Professor Thorsten Ackemann

Project Description: This PhD project explores exotic magnetic phenomena in rubidium-based cold atom systems using light-mediated interaction between Zeeman spin states controlled by real magnetic fields. Focusing on quadrupolar and dipolar ordering, it aims to investigate spontaneously emerging magnetic phases, including drifting multipolar spin density waves—an out-of-equilibrium phenomenon linked to dissipative time crystals. The work will involve optical and microwave imaging, Stokes parameter measurements, and analysis of excitation spectra to understand phase stabilization mechanisms. It also examines skyrmions and magnetic bubbles relevant to spintronics. Theoretical modelling uses a nonlinear density-matrix approach, with potential applications to magnetometry. Collaboration includes Université Côte d’Azur, France.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Professor Cristian Bonato

Project Description: This PhD project offers a unique opportunity to explore condensed matter physics using a cutting-edge quantum sensor: the spin of a single electron in diamond. This sensor, part of the world’s first commercial low-temperature scanning spin-based system, maps magnetic fields with nanoscale precision across a wide temperature range (1.6–300K). The project aims to investigate novel 2D quantum materials and heterostructures—such as superconductors and magnetic systems—created at Heriot-Watt University. By probing magnetic textures and superconductivity at the atomic scale, this research will uncover emergent phenomena relevant to future “beyond-silicon” electronic technologies.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Professor Jennifer Hastie

Project Description: This PhD project explores the quantum properties of a novel, compact light source: a VECSEL-based optical parametric oscillator (OPO). Unlike typical intracavity OPOs, VECSELs offer ultra-low intensity noise, down to shot-noise-limited performance. Our group recently demonstrated the first single-frequency, tuneable VECSEL-driven intracavity OPO. This project will be the first to investigate its quantum behaviour across operating regimes: below threshold, twin-beam generation above threshold, and potential individual beam squeezing far above threshold. Success could lead to compact, transportable sources of non-classical light for quantum imaging, spectroscopy, and trace gas detection in real-world applications.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Professor Paul Griffin

Project Description: This PhD project focuses on developing high-precision quantum devices using ultracold atoms for next-generation sensing and navigation. The aim is to create compact, ultra-sensitive matter-wave interferometers using atomic waveguides—analogous to fiber optics for atoms—for rotation sensing. Working with Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs), the research will explore optical ring traps and atom-guiding geometries to enhance phase sensitivity far beyond that of traditional gyroscopes. Based at the University of Strathclyde, the project offers hands-on experience in cutting-edge quantum technologies, laser cooling, and chip-based systems, with opportunities for collaboration in a multidisciplinary team working on quantum navigation solutions.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Dr Christiaan Bekker

Industry Partner: Weir Group

Project Description: This PhD project focuses on advancing MEMS atomic sensors, which use atomic properties to measure time, magnetic fields, and inertial forces with exceptional precision. The work will address challenges in microfabrication, pressure control, on-chip electronics, and optical integration to enhance device performance and scalability. In collaboration with academic and industry partners, the team will develop new vapour cell designs and fabrication methods, integrating them into quantum sensors such as magnetometers, clocks, and memories. The project offers hands-on experience in quantum technologies, microfabrication, and precision measurement, with access to world-class facilities and expertise at the University of Strathclyde and Kelvin Nanotechnology.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Professor Mehul Malik

Project Description: This PhD project at the Beyond Binary Quantum Information (BBQ) Lab, Heriot-Watt University, explores advanced quantum technologies using complex entangled states of light. Moving beyond qubits, it will study entanglement in high-dimensional properties like position, time, and frequency to develop robust quantum communication and imaging systems. Research will involve both theoretical and experimental work in structured light, multi-photon entanglement, and scattering media. The researcher will undertake work in quantum photonics, programming, and entanglement theory, with opportunities for international collaboration, conference travel, and skill development. The BBQ Lab, led by Prof. Mehul Malik, is internationally recognized and equipped with cutting-edge facilities and strong global partnerships.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Dr Alessandro Rossi

Industry Partner: Quantum Motion Technologies (QMT)

Project Description: This PhD project tackles one of quantum computing’s key engineering challenges: managing heat in cryogenic environments. As quantum processors must operate at ultra-low temperatures, integrating classical control electronics near the quantum chip is difficult due to heat generation and complex thermal behaviour. This project focuses on developing CMOS-compatible thermometry techniques and chip-scale thermal mapping under realistic operating conditions. You’ll also work on accurate thermal modelling for circuit design. Based primarily at the University of Strathclyde’s SEQUEL Lab, with collaboration and training opportunities at the National Physical Laboratory and Quantum Motion Technologies, this research supports the scalable development of next-generation quantum computers.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Professor Patrik Öhberg

Project Description: This is a project in theoretical physics. Our goal is to understand the properties of low-dimensional quantum many-body systems in the framework of topological quantum field theories. We will in particular focus on the role of nonlinear and interacting gauge theories, and by doing so bridge the gap between condensed matter physics, particle physics, and gravity. We will do this with two physical platforms in mind, namely, ultracold quantum gases and photonic lattices. Both these platforms offer unique possibilities to study phenomena across a broad range of physical scenarios and provide a deeper understanding of the interplay between topology and gauge theories, closely linked to experimental realisations. By doing so we will address fundamental questions about Nature, ranging from microscopic descriptions of quantum matter to aspects of quantum gravity. The back-action principle is key in this respect. Prominent examples are electromagnetism and gravity where matter tells space how to curve, and space tells matter how to move.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Dr Stuart Ingleby

Industry Partner: MBDA

Project Description: This PhD project focuses on developing optically pumped quantum magnetometers (OPMs) for high-precision geomagnetic positioning, particularly in challenging environments such as airborne platforms, ships, and drones. These magnetometers offer femto-tesla sensitivity and compact, portable design, but real-world applications require advanced noise rejection. The project will advance magnetic gradiometry techniques, utilizing alkali spin maser methods and microfabricated caesium cells to achieve very high common-mode noise rejection (CMNR). The team will work closely with MBDA on UAV trials and explore the potential dual-use applications of this technology in healthcare and biomedical fields. The project will integrate cutting-edge research at the University of Strathclyde for practical, high-impact solutions.

Student: TBC

Primary Supervisor: Dr Kali Wilson

Project Description: This PhD project will explore the role of vortices, or quantum whirlpools, in superfluid and superconducting systems, focusing on vortex pinning dynamics. Superfluids formed of ultracold atoms offer an ideal system to study these quantum effects, with precise control over interactions, geometry, and vortex nucleation. The student will investigate the interaction between vortices and pinning potentials, which are crucial for high-temperature superconductors and the internal dynamics of pulsars and neutron stars. The project will involve designing optical systems for vortex nucleation and conducting a detailed study of vortex-pin interactions, providing expertise in quantum technologies, optics, and atomic physics.