PhD Studentship: Quantum-enhanced Levitated Mechanical Sensors

[Full tuition fees paid and a tax free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26).] This 3.5-year PhD studentship at The University of Manchester focuses on the development of quantum-enhanced levitated mechanical sensors, a cutting-edge area within quantum technology, photonics, and optomechanics. The project is funded by the Department of Engineering and is part of research support for a Royal Society University Research Fellowship. The successful candidate will receive full tuition coverage and a tax-free stipend at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26). The research aims to leverage the second quantum revolution to create devices with quantum advantage, specifically targeting quantum sensors for acceleration sensing. These sensors have the potential to transform fields such as inertial navigation, environmental monitoring, and geological surveying. Traditional acceleration sensors rely on clamped mechanical oscillators, which are limited by their clamping mechanisms, restricting sensitivity and access to quantum resources. Levitated optomechanics, a rapidly advancing field, offers a solution by using optical fields to trap and control mechanical systems in vacuum, enabling the preparation of quantum states in nanoparticles and scaling up to multi-particle arrays. The project will build on recent breakthroughs in the field, aiming to deliver proof-of-concept quantum acceleration sensors ready for technological adoption. The ideal candidate will be creative and motivated, with a strong interest in quantum technology and a willingness to learn a broad range of skills, including optical systems, precision measurements, electronic control and feedback systems, vacuum systems, data analysis, and scientific writing. Experience in optics labs and Python programming is beneficial but not essential. Applicants should hold or expect to achieve at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline. Both home and overseas applicants are encouraged to apply. The position will start on 1st October 2026, and the advert will be removed once filled, so early application is advised. For further information or to apply, candidates should contact the supervisor, Dr Jayadev Vijayan, and provide details of their academic background, relevant experience, and motivation for the project.