PhD Studentship: Robust and Compact Laser Delivery Systems for Next-Generation Quantum Sensors

Project Overview

This PhD project focuses on the development ofrobust, low-cost,andcompactlaserdeliverysystemstailoredfornext-generationquantumsensors. Thesesystemsare essentialfortranslating highly sensitivequantumtechnologies out of the labandinto the field, enabling applications ranging from underground mappingandnavigation to gravity-based surveyingandspace-based sensing.

You will work on the design, development,andtesting of integratedsystemsthat may includelasergenerationandstabilisation, RF control, PIDsystems,andembedded electronics. The work aims to improve performance, reduce sizeandcost,andincrease the resilience oflasersubsystems in real-world operational conditions.

Research EnvironmentandCollaboration

The project will be based in the School of Engineering at the University of Birminghamanddelivered in collaboration with industrial partnersandtheQuantumTechnology Hub in Sensing, ImagingandTiming (QuSIT) – one of five national hubs funded by EPSRC as part of a £160 million investment inquantumtechnologies. More information on QuSIT can be found atwww.qusit.org.

The successful applicant will be embedded in a vibrant, multidisciplinary research environment, benefiting from expertise inquantumsystems, electronics, photonics,andsystemsintegration. Close collaboration with industry will ensure relevanceandimpact in real-world deployments.

Candidate Requirements

Applicants should have (or expect to receive) a UK 1st class, 2:1 or equivalent in electronic engineering, physics, or a closely related discipline. Experience with electronics is essential, while prior knowledge of optical orlasersystemsis desirable but not essential.

Applicants should have a strong interest in applied research, be motivated to work on the practical challenges ofquantumtechnology translationandenjoy problem-solving across multiple domains.

FundingandEligibility

This studentship covers tuition feesandstipendforUK students only.
Applications from international students are welcomed, but funding may not be available,andself-funded candidates or those with external sponsorship should indicate this in their application.

How to Apply

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To be eligibleforfunding, candidates must begin the PhD by September/October 2025.

Please apply via the University of Birmingham's postgraduate application portal, selecting the PhD in Engineering programme. Make sure to reference the supervisor's name (Dr Farzad Hayati) in your application.

Informal enquiries are welcomeandshould be directed to Dr Farzad Hayati .

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgroundsandare committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive,andsupportive research environment.

Funding notes:

This studentship covers tuition feesandstipendforUK students only.

Applications from international students are welcomed, but funding may not be available,andself-funded candidates or those with external sponsorship should indicate this in their application.

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