Publisher
source

University of Southampton

Top university

PhD in Engineering Quantum Measurements to Test the Zeno Effect in Levitated Mechanics University of Southampton in United Kingdom

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Computer Science

Funding

Competition funded.

Deadline

Jan 8, 2027

Country flag

Country

United Kingdom

University

University of Southampton

Social connections

How do I apply for this?

Sign in for free to reveal details, requirements, and source links.

Apply for this position

Keywords

Computer Science
Mechanical Engineering
Experimental Physics
Electrical Engineering
Materials Science
Quantum Mechanics
Nano Particles
Physics

Suggested positions

About this position

University of Southampton is advertising a PhD project in engineering quantum measurements to test the quantum Zeno effect in levitated mechanics. The project sits in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences and is based in the School of Physics and Astronomy.

The research asks whether repeated measurements can slow or inhibit the evolution of a quantum system, using a levitated nanoparticle trapped and measured with light. You will work with Southampton’s non-cavity optical tweezer platform, including parabolic mirrors, feedback cooling, optical detection, calibration, and repeated-measurement experiments. The project combines experimental physics, quantum measurement theory, modelling, and analysis of how measurement affects motion near the quantum-classical boundary.

Key tasks include developing and calibrating measurements, modelling realistic effects such as optical loss, heating, and imperfect control, and comparing repeated-measurement results with matched controls to identify genuine Zeno dynamics. The project also aims to produce validated measurement protocols, experimentally grounded models, reusable control and analysis software, and survival statistics for testing quantum predictions.

Funding: competition funded. Degree: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Entry requirement: 2:1 honours degree. Deadline: 8 January 2027.

Applicants should review the full project page and entry requirements, then apply through the University of Southampton postgraduate research application route before the closing date.

Funding details

Competition funded.

What's required

Applicants should have a 2:1 honours degree. The project is suited to candidates interested in experimental physics, quantum measurement theory, modelling, optical detection, and control/analysis software development.

How to apply

Review the project details and full entry requirements on the University of Southampton page, then use the project application process linked from the postgraduate research project page to apply before the closing date.

More information can be found here

Ask ApplyKite AI

Start chatting
Can you summarize this position?
What qualifications are required for this position?
How should I prepare my application?