PhD Studentship: Entanglement Generation with Quantum Dots Heriot-Watt University in United Kingdom

This four-year PhD studentship, entitled 'Entanglement Generation with Quantum Dots,' is hosted at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh within the Beyond Binary Quantum Information (BBQ) Lab, led by Professor Mehul Malik. The project is aligned with the ERC grant QUEST (Quantum Photonics in Space and Time) and focuses on developing new methods for the coherent control and manipulation of multiple quantum dots using spatially structured light. The aim is to harness quantum dots as efficient sources of high-quality single photons, advancing the generation of ultrabright entanglement for scalable quantum technologies in computing and communication.

Entangled photons are central to next-generation quantum technologies, including distributed quantum computing and device-independent quantum key distribution. Despite their importance, efficient and on-demand generation of photonic entanglement remains a significant challenge. Semiconductor quantum dots offer a promising solution, but current approaches relying on multiplexing many photons from a single dot limit scalability. This project seeks to overcome these limitations by building on the BBQ Lab's expertise in quantum information processing with spatially structured quantum light.

As a PhD student, you will gain substantial expertise in both theoretical and experimental quantum information science, with hands-on experience in programming, experimental quantum photonics, and condensed matter physics. The BBQ Lab provides access to extensive photonics laboratory facilities and is supported by major grants from the European Research Council (ERC), the UK Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC), and the Royal Academy of Engineering. The lab maintains strong collaborations with leading groups in the EU and North America and is a member of two UK National Quantum Technology Hubs (IQN and QuSIT). There is also an active partnership with NASA Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Caltech, offering access to cutting-edge superconducting detector technology.

Throughout the PhD, you will have opportunities to develop your communication skills, participate in collaborative projects, publish peer-reviewed papers, and present your research at UK/EU meetings and international conferences. The position includes generous funding: an annual tax-free stipend of approximately £21,383 (UKRI level 2025/26, adjusted yearly for inflation), coverage of UK Visa costs and the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge, a research-grade laptop, and £3000 in departmental funds for travel to conferences and workshops. Additional funds for attending national and international conferences are available from the BBQ Lab.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in quantum physics and photonics, with enthusiasm for experimental research. Applicants from Physics, Optics, Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, or Natural Sciences are encouraged, and a top-class degree or high grades are essential. Applications from women and other underrepresented groups in Physics and Engineering are especially welcomed.

To apply, submit a formal application through the Heriot-Watt online application system, indicating the name of the PhD studentship. Arrange for two academic references to be sent to Prof. Malik at [email protected]. Informal enquiries can be directed to Dr. Suraj Goel at [email protected]. The application deadline is February 15th, 2026, and the position is open to all nationalities, with some flexibility in the starting date (ideally October 1st, 2026 or January 1st, 2027).