Mehul Malik
9 months ago
This position has expired. You can find similar positions from the section below or browse our positions listing pages.
PhD Studentships in Quantum Photonics and Quantum Networking at Heriot-Watt University Heriot-Watt University in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Both positions are fully funded for all nationalities, including coverage for UK Visa costs and the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge. The annual tax-free stipend is approximately £21,383 (predicted UKRI level 2025/26), adjusted yearly for inflation. Additional funding includes a research-grade laptop, £3000 for travel to conferences and workshops, and significant extra funds for attending national and international conferences. Funding is provided by the European Research Council (ERC), Engineer
Deadline
Expired
Country
United Kingdom
University
Heriot-Watt University
Suggested positions
Keywords
About this position
Two fully funded PhD studentships are available in the Beyond Binary Quantum Information (BBQ) Lab at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, led by Professor Mehul Malik. The research areas are: (1) Entanglement generation with quantum dots, and (2) Noise-robust entanglement distribution for quantum networking. Both projects are at the forefront of quantum photonics and quantum information science, with strong experimental and theoretical components.
The first project focuses on developing methods for the coherent control and manipulation of multiple quantum dots using spatially structured light, aiming to create efficient sources of high-quality single photons for ultrabright entanglement generation. The second project aims to develop and test high-dimensional time-bin entanglement for robust distribution over optical fibre networks, in partnership with BT Group, and includes theoretical modeling of noise effects in quantum links.
Both positions are part of the ERC QUEST grant and are supported by the European Research Council (ERC), Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), and BT Group. The BBQ Lab is a member of two UK National Quantum Technology Hubs and collaborates with leading groups in the EU, North America, and NASA JPL Caltech.
Applicants should have a strong background in quantum physics, photonics, or related fields such as Physics, Optics, Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, or Natural Sciences. A top-class degree or high grades are essential. The lab especially encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups in Physics. The annual tax-free stipend is approximately £21,383 (UKRI level 2025/26), with full coverage of UK Visa costs and the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge. Additional benefits include a research-grade laptop, £3000 for travel, and further funds for conference attendance.
The application deadline is February 15, 2026, with the ideal start date from October 1, 2026. Applications must be submitted via the Heriot-Watt University online system, and two academic references should be sent to Prof. Malik. Informal enquiries can be directed to Dr. Suraj Goel or Dr. Sugandh Sirohi. For more information, visit the BBQ Lab website or the provided links.
Funding details
Both positions are fully funded for all nationalities, including coverage for UK Visa costs and the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge. The annual tax-free stipend is approximately £21,383 (predicted UKRI level 2025/26), adjusted yearly for inflation. Additional funding includes a research-grade laptop, £3000 for travel to conferences and workshops, and significant extra funds for attending national and international conferences. Funding is provided by the European Research Council (ERC), Engineer
What's required
Applicants should have a strong understanding of quantum physics and photonics, with enthusiasm for experimental work. Suitable backgrounds include Physics, Optics, Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, or Natural Sciences. A top-class degree or high grades in the relevant field are essential. Applications from women and other underrepresented groups in Physics are especially encouraged. Candidates should be able to provide two academic references. There is flexibility in start dates, but the ideal start is October 1, 2026.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Professors
Professor at School of Engineering & Physical Sciences
United Kingdom
Research Interests
Quantum Mechanics
Quantum Physics
Quantum Communication
Quantum Computing
Optical Physics
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.