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

This PhD project at The University of Manchester, within the Department of Materials, aims to revolutionize atomic-scale characterisation of quantum materials. Leveraging state-of-the-art transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and advanced deep/machine learning (DL/ML) techniques, the research will develop automatic, quantitative, and statistically representative imaging methods for local structure, composition, and bonding at atomic resolution across millimeter-scale areas in semiconductor systems.

Quantum technologies require precise doping of isotopically selected single impurity ions into materials such as silicon, SiGe, diamond, and 2D materials. Current optical methods can locate single atom qubits to 1μm spatial resolution but cannot probe their atomic environment. TEM is uniquely capable of characterising these buried defect sites, but traditional approaches are manual and time-consuming. This project will overcome these limitations by developing automated, high-speed, event-responsive scanning and DL feature identification, enabling the automatic location and imaging of point defects in semiconductor crystals at the atomic scale. Electron energy loss spectroscopy will further allow full characterisation and manipulation of the local bonding environment.

The new characterisation capability will unlock the ability to reliably produce large arrays of isotopically selected ions, forming the basis for fully error-corrected quantum computers. The successful candidate will gain expertise in advanced TEM, DL/ML, and materials science, preparing for a career as an independent researcher in quantum technologies.

Funding is available for tuition fees, a UKRI minimum annual stipend (£20,780), and up to £5,000 per year for research training support, covering the full 4-year duration. Flexible study arrangements, including part-time options, may be considered depending on project and funding requirements.

Applicants must have an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a relevant discipline or a 2:1 plus a Master’s degree at merit. Application requires a personal statement, CV, details of previous study, and two referees. Equality, diversity, and inclusion are central to the university’s ethos, and applicants from diverse backgrounds and career paths are encouraged.

Applications are accepted year-round, but early submission is recommended as the advert may be removed before the deadline. Contacting the supervisors prior to application is strongly advised.

For more information and to apply, visit the project page.