Solid-state single photon sources for quantum sensing

Single photon sources are an important requirement for many quantum technology applications. For example, currently the most successful single photon sources are those produced using atom-cavity systems, quantum dots and colour centres in diamond crystals. They usually operate in the optical regime and are suitable for applications in quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing etc. However, room-temperature solid-state single photon sources which operate in the telecom wavelength regime and do not require cryogenic cooling systems are still difficult to realise. The objective of this project is to theoretically and experimentally investigate materials that can produce single photons in the near-infrared wavelength regime (1500-1600 nm) where there is lots of interest, especially for applications in quantum communication and quantum sensing. The materials investigated will include rare earth-doped materials that can be prepared using a laser-based manufacturing process or chemical methods. A key challenge for long-term applications of photonic qubits is the capability to generate large numbers of single photons with identical quantum properties. Increasing the level of indistinguishability of single photons optically requires designing and fabricating advanced photonic circuits and setting up experiments to test and verify them. As a first application, the single photon source will be used to test such a device. In addition, we will consider bio-sensing applications. The project will be carried out in close collaboration with the Leeds spinout company NIQS Tech. Ltd.

<div> <table align="left" hspace="0" vspace="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p style="margin-bottom:11px">The project will be multidisciplinary with a combination of theoretical quantum optics and experimental photonics components. It will involve developing the theoretical framework for the generation of single photon on a substrate surface doped with rare earth ions.&nbsp; Early collaborative work in related research has already been carried out and some of it is currently being published [N. Furtak-Wells, B. Dawson, T. Mann, G. Jose and A. Beige,&nbsp;<a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2305.18826">arXiv:2305.18826</a> (2023), B. Dawson, N. Furtak-Wells, T. Mann, G. Jose and A. Beige, Front. Photon. 2, 700737 (2021)]. A laser plasma-based doping process developed by the supervisor&rsquo;s research group [J. &nbsp;Chandrappan et.al. Sci. Rep. 5, 14037 (2015), J. Chandrappan et.al., Optical Materials Express 5, 2849 (2015).] is the underlying method that will be utilised to carry out the preparation of materials for the preparation of the single photon source. In addition, the project requires further surface photonic circuit design, fabrication using femtosecond lasers, and clean room processing to achieve the ability to realise indistinguishable photon sources. The experimental plan in the first phase of the project will involve the following components:</p> <ol> <li>Design of a doped glass/silica on silicon-based emitter</li> <li>Characterisation of the materials using electron microscopy and laser spectroscopic methods</li> <li>Design and building of an experimental setup to characterise single photon sources in the wavelength range &gt;1500nm</li> <li>Demonstration of the presence of single photons through measurements</li> </ol> <p>In the second phase, the student will study the application of the source such as&nbsp;single photon sources for non-invasive biosensing, e.g., for non-invasive glucose biosensing that NIQS Technology Ltd is pursuing. The objective is to develop a platform sensor technology that can be utilised for the sensing of a range of biomarkers and biomolecules.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div>

<p style="margin-bottom:11px">Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University&#39;s website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>EPSRC DTP Engineering &amp; Physical Sciences</strong></em> (if you do not apply to this programme code, your application will not be considered) and in the research information section&nbsp;that the research degree you wish to be considered for is&nbsp;<em><strong>Solid-state single photon sources for quantum sensing</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemical-engineering/staff/413/professor-gin-jose">Professor Gin Jose</a>&nbsp;as your proposed supervisor. Please state in the Finance section that the funding source you are applying for is <em><strong>EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership 2024/25:&nbsp; Chemical &amp; Process Engineering</strong></em>.</p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University&#39;s minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p>Applications will be considered after the closing date. &nbsp;Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application. &nbsp;We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of 29 April 2024:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership Studentship consisting of the award of fees. together with a tax-free maintenance grant of &pound;19,237 per year for 3.5 years.&nbsp; Training and support will also be provided.</p> <p>This opportunity is open to UK applicants only.&nbsp; All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Training Partnership Studentship Competition and selection is based on academic merit.</p> <p>Please refer to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a>&nbsp;website for&nbsp;information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Professor Gin Jose by email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:G.Jose@leeds.ac.uk">g.jose@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact Doctoral College Admissions by email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>