PhD student in Theoretical Physics: Quantum Sensing

The Department of Physics is located in the AlbaNova University Center and has approximately 240 employees, 250 students at undergraduate level and 70 graduate students. There are four research subjects within the postgraduate program: Physics, Theoretical Physics, Chemical Physics and Medical Radiation Physics. These subjects span over several research groups with different research activities. For information about the Department of Physics, see: www.fysik.su.se/english.

Project description

Subject: Theoretical Physics

We invite applications for a PhD position in the theory of quantum sensing at the Department of Physics (Fysikum), Stockholm University. The project will be carried out within the research group led by Sofia Qvarfort, and will be based at Nordita as part of the Wallenberg Initiative on Networks and Quantum Information.

Quantum sensing is a rapidly developing quantum technology that promises unprecedented precision in measuring small parameters and detecting weak forces. The quantum sensing advantage arises from uniquely quantum resources such as coherence and entanglement, as well as from how the parameter of interest is encoded into the quantum state. Candidate systems for quantum sensing span a wide range, from single atoms to relatively large mechanical resonators operating in the quantum regime.

Classical systems are fundamentally limited in their sensitivity, but quantum systems can in principle perform better in a well-defined quantifiable sense. Such enhanced performance can be realised, for example, by encoding parameters of interest in quantum systems with nonlinear dynamics. Physical platforms exhibiting strong nonlinearities include superconducting qubits and coupled light–matter systems. Several important questions remain open despite foundational importance and practical relevance of this research  including the effects of noise and decoherence, as well as the role of optimum quantum measurement strategies.

This PhD project will investigate the sensing capabilities of nonlinear quantum systems, employing tools from quantum information theory and quantum metrology. The work will involve learning and applying mathematical methods to solve open quantum dynamics and techniques for calculating both classical and quantum Fisher information. Future directions may include applications to quantum sensing with mechanical resonators or distributed networks of quantum sensors.

We seek a motivated and creative candidate eager to learn new skills, with a strong collaborative mindset and excellent proficiency in written and spoken English. The position offers opportunities for international travel and conference presentations, and you will be supported in developing your teaching and/or science communication skills.

Qualification requirements

In order to be admitted to postgraduate education, the applicant must have the general and specific entry requirements. The qualification requirements must be met by the deadline for applications.

You meet general entry requirements if you have completed a second-cycle degree, or completed courses equivalent to at least 240 higher education credits, of which 60 credits must be in the second cycle, or have otherwise acquired equivalent knowledge in Sweden or elsewhere.

Specific entry requirements. In order to be accepted as a PhD student in Physics or Theoretical Physics a BSc in Physics (or equivalent) is required. The studies must include 60 credits of second-cycle courses in physics out of which at least 15 credits correspond to a second-cycle degree project. The degree project does not have to have been examined at the application deadline, but work corresponding to half a semester of full-time studies should have been devoted to it. For the subject Chemical Physics courses in chemistry may replace the required physics courses. The subject Medical Radiation Physics requires a second-cycle degree project of 30 credits in the subject area, or with 60 credits of physics, a second-cycle degree project of 30 credits in another subject area.

In addition, proficiency in English language, equivalent to English B in Swedish high school, is required, or

• Previously completed University degree taught in English
• IELTS score (Academic) of 6.0 or more (with none of the sections scoring less than 5.0)
• TOEFL score of 550 or more (computer based test 213, internet based 79)
• Cambridge/Oxford - Advanced or Proficiency level

Selection

The selection among the eligible candidates will be based on their capacity to benefit from the training. The following criteria will be used to assess this capacity:

• documented knowledge in a relevant field of research
• capacity for analytical and creative thinking
• initiative
• independence
• ability to collaborate
• written and oral proficiency.

Admission Regulations for Doctoral Studies at Stockholm University.

About the employment

We offer a fixed-term employment as a doctoral student according to Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100). The period of employment may not be longer than what corresponds to full-time doctoral education for four years. As a doctoral student, you should primarily devote yourself to your own doctoral education, but the employment may include work with education, research and administration to a limited extent (maximum 20 %).

A new employment as a doctoral student is for a maximum of one year, the employment is then renewed for a maximum of two years at a time.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

For more information about the project, please contact Assistant. Prof. Sofia Qvarfort, sofia.qvarfort@fysik.su.se.

For information about the employment Prof. Michael Odelius, odelius@fysik.su.se, who can also forward questions to the PhD student council at Fysikum.

Application

Apply for the PhD student position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.