FSE Bicentenary: New Frontiers for Atomic Imaging of Quantum Materials (PhD) The University of Manchester in United Kingdom

This PhD project at The University of Manchester, titled 'New Frontiers for Atomic Imaging of Quantum Materials', aims to revolutionize the atomic-scale characterisation of quantum materials using advanced transmission electron microscopy (TEM) combined with deep/machine learning (DL/ML) and human vision approaches. The research will focus on developing automatic, quantitative, and statistically representative imaging methods to resolve local structure, composition, and bonding at atomic resolution across millimeter-scale areas in semiconductor systems.

One of the key challenges in quantum technologies is the deterministic doping of isotopically selected single impurity ions into materials such as isotopically enriched silicon, SiGe, diamond, and 2D materials. While optical methods can locate implanted single atom qubits in semiconductors to a spatial resolution of 1μm, they cannot probe the local atomic environment. TEM is the only technique capable of characterising these buried defect sites, but it is currently manual and labor-intensive. Locating a specific atomic feature within a 1μm square field of view could require up to 10 million atomic TEM images, making the process impractical and leaving many qubit defects uncharacterised.

This project will overcome these limitations by developing advanced TEM imaging approaches powered by DL/ML control. Automation, high-speed event-responsive scanning, and DL feature identification will enable the automatic location and imaging of point defects in semiconductor crystals at the atomic scale. Once defect features are identified, electron energy loss spectroscopy will be used for full characterisation and manipulation of the local bonding environment. The resulting world-first characterisation capability will unlock the ability to reliably produce large arrays (~1 million) of isotopically selected ions, forming the basis for a fully error-corrected quantum computer.

The successful candidate will gain expertise in TEM, DL/ML, materials characterisation, and quantum technologies, preparing for a future career as an independent researcher in materials for quantum technologies. The project is supervised by Professors S Haigh and R Curry in the Department of Materials. The University of Manchester is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, actively encouraging applicants from diverse backgrounds and offering flexible study arrangements, including part-time options.

Funding for this project covers tuition fees, a UKRI minimum annual stipend (£20,780 per annum), and up to £5,000 per annum research training support grant for the full 4-year programme. Applicants should have an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a relevant discipline or a 2:1 honours degree plus a Master’s degree at merit in a relevant field. Applications are accepted year-round, but early application is recommended as the advert may be removed before the deadline.

To apply, candidates must complete a formal application through the online portal, specifying the project name, supervisor(s), previous study details, and contact information for two referees. A personal statement and CV are required. Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors before applying.