On chip microwave quantum optics with Josephson photonics

The ability to generate and detect a single photon, a single quanta of radiation, is a key requirement of many quantum technologies. While a range of single photon technologies based on semiconductors or atomic transitions are well established in the optical regime, development of quantum microwave technologies is more challenging, and lags several decades behind its optical counterparts. This largely is due to the 5 orders of magnitude energy difference between microwave and optical photons, and that there are few physical systems that naturally emit or absorb photons in the microwave frequency band. While the energy scale is challenging, microwaves offer an advantage compared to optical photons, as they are much easier to control, and can be guided on-chip using transmission lines with very low loss, and interface naturally with spin and superconducting qubit technologies. 

This project will focus on using the newly emerging field of Josephson photonics, which combines superconducting microwave cavities with DC voltage biased Josephson junctions, to perform on-chip generation and detection of microwave photons at cryogenic temperatures. These technologies may be integrated into future solid-state quantum computing systems, or quantum sensor systems having applications across defense, chemistry and biology. The project involves device design and fabrication in a clean room environment, electromagnetic simulation and cryogenic measurement in dilution refrigerators, including the use of advanced microwave measurement techniques. You will get the opportunity to present your work at national and international conferences, and there are plenty of chances for local and international collaboration.

Scholarship

• Fully funded tax-free stipend of $37,684 per annum (2024 rate) for 3.5 years
• International candidates receive a tuition fee scholarship

Eligibility

• Domestic and International applicants
• PhD applicants only
• Candidates should hold a 4 year undergraduate degree or masters degree in a related field, and have some demonstrated experience in a research setting. 

How to Apply

Please email your expression of interest to maja.cassidy@unsw.edu.au. Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• A letter of motivation, describing your interest in and suitability for the project.
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.