Postgraduate research project

Gravimetry and magnetometry in space by levitated mechanics

Funding
Competition funded View fees and funding
Type of degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Entry requirements
2:1 honours degree View full entry requirements
Faculty graduate school
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Closing date

About the project

This project aims to provide quantum sensors to operate at real world setting to the acceleration noise level of 10-10 m/s2/√Hz based on levitated mechanics. Such sensors will allow to significantly improve our ability to track masses (gravimetry) to monitor their movement and change as well as to detect small magnetic fields (magnetometry). 

Levitated mechanical sensors are based on optical or magnetic trapping of particles in vacuum. Particles are cooled to the quantum ground state or state engineered in a different quantum way by quantum-limited measurement-based protocols. We operate laboratory systems of both the magnetic and optical platforms and have started to develop compact versions of these sensors for extreme environments and in remote operation. Some sensors are optimised for use in space on small satellites for geodesy and consistent data production for processes relevant from climate change. 

We have completed our first space payload as a steppingstone for development of levitated optomechanical quantum technology, and with the aim to fly a large space mission by 2030. Other sensors may be for use under water and in underground settings. Integrated sensor networks will be used to enhance spatial and temporal resolution for specific sensing applications.

This project will contribute to our quantum sensor developments by designing, implementing and testing new platforms to optimise and enhance operation. 

Join us if you have an open attitude to approaching and solving new and challenging tasks for realising the sensing platforms. You will be working with us on discovering new ways of doing things and building devices which did not exist anywhere before the start of the project.