PhD Translational Quantum Technology AQ

Quantum technology has been selected by the UK Government as a key area of innovation, moving science into real-world applications. Four Quantum Technology Hubs have been established as flagship projects in this program.

This postgraduate training programme is aligned with the UK National Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors and Metrology, an £80 million collaborative effort led by the University of Birmingham in partnership with the Universities of Glasgow, Nottingham, Southampton, Strathclyde and Sussex, the National Physical Laboratory and over 70 companies.

The PhD programme offers a unique opportunity for students to undertake a research in a multi-disciplinary environment between science, engineering and industry. Students benefit from participating in both the technology translation and applied research activities carried out within the UK National Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors and Metrology, and from the educational programmes offered by the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

The MRes part of the programme comprises classroom taught quantum physics-oriented modules for students with engineering backgrounds; technology-orientated modules for students with physics backgrounds; and an independent research project that is documented in a substantial thesis. The research project consists of a team element; all students will organise themselves to present a technical demonstration at a national or international conference. There is also an individual research element, which takes place in industry or in relation to a participating company.

The PhD programme will consist of the 1 year MRes carried out at the University of Birmingham and a 3 year PhD project in one of the partner Universities of the UK National Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors and Metrology. PhD placements in the National Physics Laboratory (NPL) and industry partners will be supported. Students decide on the PhD project at the beginning of the programme and MRes activities will be tailored to build up specific technical knowledge needed for the PhD.

Why study PhD Translational Quantum Technology at Birmingham?

This course is aimed at students who want to put the engineering or physics skills acquired in their undergraduate study, or their work experience in industry, into practice. Working in a multi-disciplinary environment with close industry interactions, the course will provide a unique ‘lab-to-market’ experience within the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme.

The UK is leading globally in this field; this is an opportunity to translate quantum science into real-world impact, relevant to economy and society whilst learning from world-leading experts.