PhD Position in 2D Materials as Quantum Sensors

NanoHelp
Southampton
18 hours ago
Create job alert
Job Details

  • Title: PhD Position in 2D Materials as Quantum Sensors
  • Organization: University of Southampton
  • Department: Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
  • Location: Southampton, United Kingdom
  • Field of Research: Quantum Nanoscience, 2D Materials, Quantum Sensing, Nanomechanics
  • Supervisor: Dr. Makars Šiškins
  • PhD Duration: 4 Years
  • Funding Type: EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering
  • Funding Details: UKRI TechExpert stipend (~£31,000/year tax‑free for UK students)
  • Eligibility: UK, EU, and International students (with or seeking external funding)
  • Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
  • Start Date: Academic Year 2026/27
  • Contact Email:
  • Application Portal: University of Southampton Application Portal

About the Project

Quantum materials such as magic‑angle twisted bilayer graphene (MATBG) have revolutionised condensed‑matter physics by exhibiting exotic phenomena like superconductivity and extreme sensitivity to external stimuli. This PhD project will harness these properties to design 2D‑material based quantum sensors capable of single‑photon detection and nanoscale noise spectroscopy, combining quantum photonics, nanomechanics and superconductivity.


As a researcher you will:



  • Develop suspended 2D membranes, e.g. MATBG, with quantum electromechanical properties.
  • Design and fabricate quantum sensors that detect single photons via superconducting transitions.
  • Perform low‑temperature transport, optomechanical, and phase‑dynamics measurements.
  • Investigate strain and electrostatic gating mechanisms for energy‑efficient tuning of superconducting states.
  • Collaborate with world‑class researchers to realise quantum metrology platforms based on 2D nanomaterials.

Research Environment

You will be part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering, receiving rigorous training in quantum science, engineering, entrepreneurship, and commercial skills. The laboratory facilities include:



  • 2D material exfoliation and stacking
  • MEMS/NEMS device fabrication
  • Low‑temperature quantum transport and optical measurements
  • Superconducting phase mapping and optoelectronic spectroscopy

Supervisor & Expertise

Dr. Makars Šiškins, Lecturer in Experimental Physics, leads this project. His research focuses on quantum materials, twisted bilayers, nanomechanical systems, quantum sensing and optomechanics, exploring quantum transport, strain engineering and moiré physics in 2D heterostructures.


Candidate Profile

Eligibility & Requirements:



  • UK 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent (Physics, Nanoscience, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field).
  • Strong background in quantum physics, condensed matter, or nanofabrication.
  • Experience with cleanroom fabrication, cryogenic measurements, or 2D materials is advantageous.
  • Excellent communication skills and collaborative mindset.

Preferred Skills:



  • Knowledge of graphene device fabrication, cryogenic transport, and photonics.
  • Familiarity with Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW for data acquisition.
  • A keen interest in quantum sensing, photonic devices, or nanotechnology.

Funding & Benefits

  • Fully funded EPSRC CDT studentship (4 years).
  • UK students: £31,000/year tax‑free stipend (UKRI minimum + £10,000).
  • EU/International students: Studentships at UKRI minimum rate or external funding opportunities.
  • Access to Quantum Technology Engineering CDT training and industry collaboration.
  • Comprehensive skills training in quantum engineering, nanofabrication, and scientific entrepreneurship.

About the University of Southampton

The University of Southampton is a Russell Group research‑intensive institution known for excellence in engineering, physical sciences, and nanotechnology. Its Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences offers advanced research in quantum materials, photonics and computational nanoscience, providing an exceptional interdisciplinary environment for doctoral training.


How to Apply

Application Deadline: 31 July 2026


Programme: PhD Quantum Technology Engineering (2026/27)



  1. Visit the University of Southampton Application Portal.
  2. Choose programme type Research, and select PhD Quantum Tech Eng.
  3. Include Dr. Makars Šiškins as the supervisor (Section 2).
  4. Upload: CV; Two academic references; Degree transcripts and certificates; English language certificate (if applicable).

Contact

Dr. Makars Šiškins –


General inquiries –


Reference Links

  • University of Southampton – Quantum Technology Engineering CDT
  • Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
  • Dr. Makars Šiškins – Research Profile

Disclaimer

This position is open to UK, EU, and international applicants with a strong academic background. The University of Southampton is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusivity across its research community.


#J-18808-Ljbffr

Related Jobs

View all jobs

PhD in Theoretical Physics: Nonperturbative QFT

Research Associate in Quantum Fibre Photonics (AP13242) - Bath, BA2 7AY

Research Associate in Quantum Fibre Photonics

Postdoc: Optically Addressable Molecular Spin Qubits

Research Associate in Optically Addressable Molecular Spin Qubits

Quantum Systems Scientist: Reliable Cold-Atom Platforms

Subscribe to Future Tech Insights for the latest jobs & insights, direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

Neurodiversity in Quantum Computing Careers: Turning Different Thinking into a Superpower

Quantum computing is one of the most demanding – & exciting – areas in technology. It sits at the intersection of physics, mathematics, computer science, engineering & even philosophy. The problems are complex, the systems are fragile, & the answers are rarely obvious. That’s exactly why quantum needs people who think differently. If you live with ADHD, autism or dyslexia, you may have been told your brain is “too distracted”, “too literal” or “too chaotic” for high-end research or deep technical roles. In reality, many of the traits that made school or traditional workplaces difficult can be huge strengths in quantum computing – from intense focus on niche topics to pattern recognition in noisy data & creative approaches to algorithms. This guide is for neurodivergent job seekers exploring quantum computing careers in the UK. We’ll look at: What neurodiversity means in a quantum computing context How ADHD, autism & dyslexia strengths map onto common quantum roles Practical workplace adjustments you can ask for under UK law How to talk about your neurodivergence in applications & interviews By the end, you’ll have a clearer sense of where you might thrive in quantum computing – & how to turn “different thinking” into a genuine superpower.

Quantum Computing Hiring Trends 2026: What to Watch Out For (For Job Seekers & Recruiters)

As we move into 2026, the quantum computing jobs market in the UK is shifting from hype to harder-edged reality. The wildest forecasts have softened, some early-stage start-ups have pivoted or been acquired, and investors are more selective. At the same time, governments, big tech, defence, finance and pharma still see quantum as strategically important – especially in algorithms, quantum-safe cryptography, optimisation and materials simulation. The result: fewer “blue-sky” roles with no clear roadmap, and more demand for quantum talent that can plug into real programmes, real products and real timelines. Whether you’re a quantum job seeker planning your next move, or a recruiter building teams across hardware, software, theory or adjacent fields, understanding the key quantum computing hiring trends for 2026 will help you stay ahead.

Quantum Computing Recruitment Trends 2025 (UK): What Job Seekers Need To Know About Today’s Hiring Process

Summary: UK quantum computing hiring has shifted from credential‑first screening to capability‑driven evaluation. Employers now value provable contributions across the stack—algorithms & applications, compilation & optimisation, circuit synthesis, control & calibration, hardware characterisation, error mitigation/correction (QEM/QEC), verification/benchmarking, and hybrid HPC/quantum workflows—plus the ability to communicate trade‑offs, costs and feasibility to non‑quantum teams. This guide explains what’s changed, what to expect in interviews and how to prepare—especially for quantum algorithm engineers, quantum software/compilers, experimentalists, quantum control & firmware, cryo/readout engineers, quantum error correction researchers, verification/benchmarking specialists, and quantum‑adjacent product managers. Who this is for: Quantum algorithm/applications engineers, compiler/optimisation engineers, control/firmware engineers, experimental physicists & hardware engineers (superconducting, trapped ion, photonic, spin/neutral atom), cryogenics & RF/microwave, QEC researchers, verification/benchmarking specialists, quantum‑HPC orchestration engineers, and product/BD roles in the UK quantum ecosystem.