Postgraduate research opportunities Quantum electronics based on hybrid super/semi-conductor devices

The rise of quantum information science has provided bridges between different research areas in physics, engineering and material science. Such a crossover is well embodied by the development of hybrid quantum systems, where heterogeneous physical systems are combined to leverage their individual strengths for the implementation of novel functionalities. The ongoing development of novel quantum technology is showing the need for a synthesis between different material platforms. In particular, a crossover between semiconductor technology, the cornerstone of today's digital age, and superconductor systems, the most advanced approach to date to quantum computing, is anticipated to deliver heightened performance and shortened time to market.

This project will focus on the hybridization of semiconductor and superconductor systems to support the development of spin-based quantum memories, microwave photon-based quantum information busses, and integrated quantum control electronics.

The research activities will balance

• semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) design and modelling with an eye to attaining thermal insulation via superconductive interposers
• hands-on cleanroom fabrication of superconductive resonators
• material-based strategies for coupling superconductive resonators to semiconductor spins
• experimental measurements at deep cryogenic temperatures

Throughout the lifespan of this project, the student will develop hands-on laboratory experience and become an expert of:

• electrical characterisation of quantum devices at cryogenic temperature
• software development for highly automated experimental routines (based on Python language)
• device design and fabrication in cleanroom environment
• device and circuit modelling based on first principles as well as commercial software packages (e.g. TCAD, CADENCE, AWR Microwave Office, Comsol Multiphysics)

HOST INSTITUTION(s)

This project is part of a long-standing collaboration between the Quantum Technology Department at the National Physical Laboratory (London) and the Physics Department at the University of Strathclyde (Glasgow). The student is expected to carry out most of the research activities at Strathclyde and will become a member of the Semiconductor Quantum Electronics (SEQUEL) Lab (https://sequel.phys.strath.ac.uk). Short stays at the other partner institution for training purposes will be encouraged and funded.

The team the student will be part of is well integrated within the wider Scottish quantum programme. Hence, he/she will be also involved with the training activities of the Graduate School for Quantum Technology (https://igsqt.ac.uk), and the Quantum Computing Applications Cluster (https://qca-cluster.org).