Publisher
source

Christian Bengs

Top university

11 months ago

Nitrogen-Vacancy Centers as Nuclear Polarization Injectors for Spin-Based Quantum Sensing University of Southampton in United Kingdom

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Chemistry

Funding

Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

Deadline

Expired

Country flag

Country

United Kingdom

University

University of Southampton

Suggested positions

Publisher
source

University of Warwick

Country flag

United Kingdom

PhD opportunity at the University of Warwick, Department of Physics, on fundamental defect properties in diamond for quantum technologies . The project explores how point defects in diamond, including nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centres and silicon-vacancy (SiV) centres, can be identified, characterised, and controlled for use in quantum sensing, quantum communication, and related quantum technology applications. Research topics include cryogenic optical and magnetic resonance techniques, electronic s...

Chemistry
Experimental Physics
Electrical Engineering
+5 more

1 week ago

Publisher
source

University of Southampton

Country flag

United Kingdom

PhD opportunity at the University of Southampton in Polarisation Maintaining Hollow-Core Fibre Fabrication , based in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences and the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC). This project focuses on hollow-core fibre technology, polarisation maintaining optical fibres , fibre design, fabrication, and experimental characterisation. The research aims to create a new generation of optical fibres that guide light in air rather than glass, with potential applica...

Experimental Physics
Materials Science
Solid State Physics
+3 more

1 week ago

Publisher
source

University of Southampton

Country flag

United Kingdom

PhD opportunity at the University of Southampton in Development of Alternative Glasses for Hollow-Core Optical Fibres . This project sits in the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) and focuses on glass science, materials characterisation, photonics, optical physics, inorganic chemistry, and materials science . The research will investigate alternative glass materials for anti-resonant hollow-core optical fibres , aiming to lower processing temperatures, reduce manufacturing costs, and enable n...

Chemistry
Electrical Engineering
Materials Science
+7 more

1 week ago

Publisher
source

University of Southampton

Country flag

United Kingdom

PhD opportunity at the University of Southampton in interaction of light and sound in emerging hollow-core optical fibres . This project is based at the Optoelectronics Research Centre , Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, and is supervised by Professor Radan Slavik and Professor Gilberto Brambilla . The research focuses on hollow-core optical fibres , optical physics , experimental physics , and electronic engineering , with an emphasis on how light propagating in air-filled fibre cor...

Mechanical Engineering
Experimental Physics
Electrical Engineering
+4 more

2 weeks ago

Publisher
source

University of Southampton

Country flag

United Kingdom

PhD opportunity at the University of Southampton in Quantum Signals via Hollow-Core Optical Fibres . This project sits at the intersection of physics , electrical engineering , optical physics , experimental physics , and quantum mechanics . The research explores how newly developed hollow-core optical fibres can transport quantum signals and states at wavelengths used by quantum sources and detectors, while also carrying classical telecom signals. The project highlights applications in long-dis...

Experimental Physics
Electrical Engineering
Quantum Mechanics
+4 more

2 weeks ago

Keywords

Chemistry
Experimental Physics
Electrical Engineering
Materials Science
Quantum Mechanics
Solid State Physics
Optical Physics
Quantum Computing
Radio Frequency Engineering
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic Field
Quantum Sensing
Floquet Theory
Physics

About this position

This PhD project, based at the University of Southampton within the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering, explores the use of diamond nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers as nuclear polarization injectors for spin-based quantum sensing. The research aims to develop novel nuclear hyperpolarization protocols, specifically Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP), leveraging the unique capabilities of NV centers to inject polarization without the need for strong external magnetic fields. The project combines theoretical and experimental approaches, utilizing periodic control fields and Floquet-engineering methods to amplify quantum signals and facilitate quantum sensing operations. NV centers are optically active color centers in diamond, recognized for their flexibility in quantum computation and sensing applications.

Their operational modes can be dynamically reconfigured using optical and magnetic control, making them versatile tools for quantum technologies. The successful candidate will gain expertise in optical and radio-frequency quantum control strategies, including Floquet-engineering and Dynamic Decoupling, which are widely applicable across quantum platforms.

The project is tailored to the candidate’s interests and may encompass engineering, experimental, and theoretical components. Applicants from various scientific backgrounds are encouraged, with preference given to those possessing strong mathematical skills, experience in optics or magnetic resonance, and a background in quantum physics. The position offers substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills, and is supported by a competitive UKRI TechExpert stipend of approximately £31k per year for UK students, with funding also available for EU, Horizon Europe, and international students.

The University of Southampton is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity, and welcomes applications from candidates seeking part-time study. The institution provides support for personal circumstances and has onsite childcare facilities. The application deadline is July 31, 2026, with an earlier deadline for international applicants.

For further information, candidates are encouraged to contact Dr Christian Bengs or Prof Malcolm Levitt.

Funding details

Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

What's required

Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree with at least a UK 2:1 honours classification or international equivalent. Candidates from diverse scientific backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently are valued. Solid mathematical skills, experience in optics or magnetic resonance techniques, and a background in quantum physics are advantageous. English language qualification is required for non-native speakers. Applications must include a CV, two academic references, degree transcripts/certificates to date, and proof of English language proficiency if applicable.

ApplyKite TwinLearns as you apply

Make your next move.

Prepare your application

Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.

Professors

Dr at Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

University Name
Country flag

United Kingdom

Research Interests

Quantum Mechanics

Floquet Theory

Electrical Engineering

Quantum Sensing

Quantum Computing

Prof at Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

University Name
Country flag

United Kingdom

Research Interests

Physical Chemistry

Condensed Matter Physics

Nmr Spectroscopy

Spectroscopy

Ultrafast Spectroscopy