The objective of this thesis is to realise a quantum-enabled  synchronised radar network with multiple nodes. Such a radar network will allow an understanding of the presence and location of any flying object in the space of interest together with real time updates of that knowledge. Thus, it will enable identification as well as differentiation of slow-moving objects from stationary or fast moving ones, which is a limitation with the current sensing capabilities. In order to achieve this objective, the prospective student will work with miniature optical resonators and an optical-to-microwave source and implement both with a strontium cold-atom system, which will discipline the optical resonators. The complete system will then be evaluated for usage in a distributed radar system. The PhD work will build upon the ongoing work being carried within the QT Hub for Sensing and Timing.  The University of Birmingham provides opportunities to attend skills-related training courses and international conferences. The successful candidate will join a team of 2 PostDocs and 2 PhDs. The candidate will be embedded in an excellent eco-system with an excellent support at every level. The research group consists of several PhDs and PostDocs, as well as 4 state-of-the art labs equipped with 5 frequency combs, one active H maser, one UTC rack and two functioning radars among various other facilities and equipments. If you are interested in the job, please apply via the University of Birmingham online portal. Full funding is only available for UK students. If you like to have more information about anything, please get in touch with Prof. Yeshpal Singh: y.singh.1@bham.ac.uk.

 

About our School-

 

The School of Physics and Astronomy is a world-leading physics department, excelling in both research and teaching. Our physics research was recently ranked top in the UK for 4-star-category research, and 4th by GPA, by the Research Excellence Framework 2021. The 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to Professor Mike Kosterlitz and Professor David Thouless jointly for their work into the discoveries of the properties of matter, work which started when they were at Birmingham together. The 2017 Prize was awarded for the detection of gravitational waves, in which Birmingham staff played a key role. The School is an excellent environment for an upcoming academic.

 

The School’s research portfolio is wide-ranging, and covers three principal themes: Quantum Matter; Particle and Nuclear Physics; and Astronomy and Experimental Gravity. It has over 120 academic and research staff together with 120 graduate students with around 50 technical and clerical support staff.

 

The School of Physics and Astronomy is an Institute of Physics Juno Champion since 2014 and holder of the Athena SWAN Silver Award. Both initiatives recognise the School’s commitment to promote diversity and equality, and to encourage better practice for all members of the community, whilst also working towards developing an equitable working culture in which all students and staff can achieve their full potential. 

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Link for application: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/physics/phd/apply.aspx