PhD - Quantum technologies with advanced site-controlled quantum dot stru

EP-30b PhD - Quantum technologies with advanced site-controlled quantum dot structures

Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term

The Epitaxy and Physics of Nanostructures (EPN) group, Tyndall National Institution and University College Cork fund a PhD position for “Quantum technologies with advanced site-controlled quantum dot structures “.

The Epitaxy and Physics of Nanostructures group is a well-established research team in Ireland focused on quantum technology research, quantum optics and device (epitaxial) growth by MOVPE. We are seeking highly self-motivated applicants with strong experimental attitude to apply for this position.

Key Responsibilities and research objectives

There is a growing interest in developing cryogenic devices for quantum technologies, so to overcome a number of limitations the community is facing in the quest for an efficient quantum processor. Site-controlled quantum dots (QDs) are excellent candidates for the mission, while facing challenges of their own. The EPN group is world leading the effort to establish advanced site-controlled QD technology, aiming at photonic mode control and enhancement (e.g. tailored cavities and/or waveguiding system), quantum light quality and entanglement in it various expressions (e.g. biexciton-exciton cascade, cluster states etc..).

Recent results on the unique system developed at Tyndall were featured in major reviews, such as Nature Photonics (e.g. Gediminas Juska, et al. “Towards quantum dot based arrays of entangled photon emitters”, Nature Photonics 7, 527 (2013); T. H. Chung, et al. “Selective carrier injection into patterned arrays of pyramidal quantum dots for entangled photon light-emitting diodes”, Nature Photonics 10, 782 (2016)). Similarly, EPN has been at the forefront of growth understanding and modelling, see e.g.:  V. Dimastrodonato, E. Pelucchi, and D. D. Vvedensky. "Self-limiting evolution of seeded quantum wires and dots on patterned substrates." Physical Review Letters 108.25 (2012): 256102; A. M. Gocalinska et al.,” Early stages of InP nanostructure formation on AlInAs”, Phys Rev. B 101, 165310 (2020) and E. E. Mura, et al., “Importance of Overcoming MOVPE Surface Evolution Instabilities for >1.3 μm Metamorphic Lasers on GaAs”, Cryst. Growth Des. 2021, 21, 4, 2068–2075

The main focus of this position will be on two fronts: on one side participate to the quantum optic challenges of the developed QD based structures, by advancing photon correlation spectroscopy, dual resonant pumping, and, generally, methods for selectively address specific and unusual quantum dot resonances and their potential exploitation in quantum processing schemes. On the other hand, a strong effort will be put in developing quantum dot devices (e.g. cavities, photonic integration, especially with the QD category generally called as “small pitch” dots) suitable for the exploitation of quantum processing protocols.

The work will include, in collaboration with the rest of the team, running the quantum optics laboratory, cleanroom processing and structural characterization techniques, such as AFM at various degrees depending on project developments.

The PhD candidate is also expected to collaborate intensively with the rest of the EPN group on other subjects close to the PhD topics.

Other responsibilities

• Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.
• Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system.
• Ensure all activities are compliant with the required Health and Safety standards.
• Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.

Essential criteria

• Typically, a first honors degree (or an equivalent international degree) in physics, electronic engineering or related relevant discipline, with a proved curriculum centered on material properties (and their quantum properties)
• Masters degrees on the same topics are welcome and will have a preferential consideration, while should also show first class achievements.

Desirable Criteria

• Applicants to have experience in quantum optics or other topics close to the proposed research
• Highly self-motivated applicants with strong experimental attitude.

The annual stipend is €22,000 pa. In addition, yearly University academic fees will paid by the Tyndall National Institute.

Informal enquiries concerning these positions can be made to Dr. Emanuele Pelucchi (emanuele.pelucchi@tyndall.ie).

The closing date for applications is 31st May, 2024.

Application Instructions

Click here to Apply

Postgraduate applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency as per UCC regulations (https://www.ucc.ie/en/study/comparison/english/postgraduate/). Certificates should be valid (usually less than 2 years old) and should be uploaded with their application.

Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.

The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process.

Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.

At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.

Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.