John JL Morton

This PhD project at University College London (UCL) focuses on the development of spin-based microwave quantum memories, a key technology for hybrid quantum systems. The research aims to connect superconducting qubits—well-suited for quantum logic gates—with electron spins, which offer exceptionally long coherence times, to create high-efficiency, long-lived quantum memories. These systems operate in the microwave domain, enabling the strong coupling of highly coherent spins to high Q-factor superconducting cavities, effectively acting as storage registers for superconducting qubits. As a doctoral researcher, you will work on measuring and optimizing the coherence times of spin defects in various material systems, developing and validating superconducting resonator and circuit designs for strong coupling, and demonstrating techniques for microwave photon storage and retrieval within spin-based memories. The project is highly interdisciplinary, combining elements of quantum mechanics, materials science, and electronic engineering. The position is based in the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at UCL, a world-leading department with a rich history and outstanding research output. The primary supervisor is Professor John JL Morton, a leading expert in quantum technologies and nanotechnology. The research environment is inclusive and diverse, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, especially those underrepresented in engineering. This is a fully funded 3.5-year studentship open to both Home and International students (including EU), covering stipend and tuition fees. Applicants should have a strong background in physical sciences or engineering, with preferred experience in magnetic resonance, RF or microwave systems, 2D materials, or quantum technologies and quantum control. Creativity and technical ambition are highly valued. Applications are accepted year-round until a suitable candidate is found. To apply, use the UCL online application system and mark your application for the attention of Prof John Morton. Include a brief summary of your research interests and how your background fits the project. For informal inquiries, contact Prof Morton at [email protected]. For more information about the department and UCL, visit the provided links. UCL is a top-ranked, multidisciplinary university located in the heart of London, offering a vibrant academic community and excellent research facilities.

This fully funded PhD studentship at University College London (UCL) offers an exciting opportunity to advance the field of high sensitivity electron spin resonance (ESR). ESR is a powerful technique for studying spins in a wide range of systems, from proteins and enzymes to condensed matter and material interfaces. Leveraging recent breakthroughs in quantum technologies—such as quantum-limited microwave amplifiers, superconducting micro-resonators, single microwave photon detectors, and quantum squeezing—this project aims to push the sensitivity of magnetic resonance to the single spin limit. As a PhD student, you will design, fabricate, and test superconducting resonator and circuit designs tailored for high-sensitivity ESR. You will also perform coherent control techniques using pulsed ESR to investigate the dynamics of small numbers of spins in promising materials for quantum sensing, and potentially discover new quantum sensing candidates. The research will explore uncharted territory, focusing on spins at material interfaces and near surfaces, with applications in quantum sensing. The project is supervised by Professor John JL Morton, a leading expert in quantum technologies and ESR, based at the London Centre for Nanotechnology and the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering at UCL. The department is renowned for its pioneering research and was ranked as the leading EEE department in the UK for research outputs in the 2014 REF. This studentship is open to both Home and International students (including EU) and covers full tuition fees and a stipend for 3.5 years. Applicants should have a strong background in physical sciences or engineering, with preferred experience in magnetic resonance, RF or microwave systems, 2D materials, or quantum technologies and quantum control. Creativity and technical ambition are highly valued. Candidates must meet the entry requirements for the UCL PhD programme in Electronic and Electrical Engineering. Applications are accepted year-round until a suitable candidate is found. To apply, use the UCL online application system and mark your application for the attention of Prof John Morton. Include a brief summary of your research interests (max 200 words) and describe how your background fits the project. Informal inquiries can be directed to Prof Morton at [email protected]. UCL is a world-leading multidisciplinary university located in the heart of London, with a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. The Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering has a rich history and continues to be at the forefront of research and innovation.