PhD Position in 2D Materials as Quantum Sensors

Job Details

• Title:
  
  PhD Position in 2D Materials as Quantum Sensors
• Organization:
  University of Southampton
• Department:
  Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Location:
  
  Southampton, United Kingdom
• Field of Research:
  Quantum Nanoscience, 2D Materials, Quantum Sensing, Nanomechanics
• Supervisor:
  Dr. Makars Šiškins
• PhD Duration: 4 Years
• Funding Type: EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering
• Funding Details: UKRI Tech Expert stipend (~£31,000/year tax‑free for UK students)
• Eligibility: UK, EU, and International students (with or seeking external funding)
• Final date to receive applications: 31 July 2026
• Start Date:
  
  Academic Year 2026/27
• Contact Email:
• Application Portal:
  University of Southampton Application Portal

Quantum materials such as magic‑angle twisted bilayer graphene (MATBG) have revolutionised condensed‑matter physics by exhibiting exotic phenomena like superconductivity and extreme sensitivity to external stimuli. This PhD project will harness these properties to design 2D‑material based quantum sensors capable of single‑photon detection and nanoscale noise spectroscopy, combining quantum photonics, nanomechanics and superconductivity.

As a researcher you will:

• Develop suspended 2D membranes, e.g. MATBG, with quantum electromechanical properties.
• Design and fabricate quantum sensors that detect single photons via superconducting transitions.
• Perform low‑temperature transport, optomechanical, and phase‑dynamics measurements.
• Investigate strain and electrostatic gating mechanisms for energy‑efficient tuning of superconducting states.
• Collaborate with world‑class researchers to realise quantum metrology platforms based on 2D nanomaterials.

You will be part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering, receiving rigorous training in quantum science, engineering, entrepreneurship, and commercial skills. The laboratory facilities include:

• 2D material exfoliation and stacking
• MEMS/NEMS device fabrication
• Low‑temperature quantum transport and optical measurements
• Superconducting phase mapping and optoelectronic spectroscopy

Dr. Makars Šiškins, Lecturer in Experimental Physics, leads this project. His research focuses on quantum materials, twisted bilayers, nanomechanical systems, quantum sensing and optomechanics, exploring quantum transport, strain engineering and moiré physics in 2D heterostructures.

Eligibility & Requirements:

• UK 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent (Physics, Nanoscience, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field).
• Strong background in quantum physics, condensed matter, or nanofabrication.
• Experience with cleanroom fabrication, cryogenic measurements, or 2D materials is advantageous.
• Excellent communication skills and collaborative mindset.

Preferred

Skills:

• Knowledge of graphene device fabrication, cryogenic transport, and photonics.
• Familiarity with Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW for data acquisition.
• A keen interest in quantum sensing, photonic devices, or nanotechnology.

• Fully funded EPSRC CDT studentship (4 years).
• UK students: £31,000/year tax‑free stipend (UKRI minimum + £10,000).
• EU/International students:
  Studentships at UKRI minimum rate or external funding opportunities.
• Access to Quantum Technology Engineering CDT training and industry collaboration.
• Comprehensive skills training in quantum engineering, nanofabrication, and scientific entrepreneurship.

The University of Southampton is a Russell Group research‑intensive institution known for excellence in engineering, physical sciences, and nanotechnology. Its Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences offers advanced research in quantum materials, photonics and computational nanoscience, providing an exceptional interdisciplinary environment for doctoral training.

Final date to receive applications: 31 July 2026

Programme:
PhD Quantum Technology Engineering (2026/27)

Dr. Makars Šiškins –

General inquiries –

• University of Southampton – Quantum Technology Engineering CDT
• Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Dr. Makars Šiškins – Research Profile

This position is open to UK, EU, and international applicants with a strong academic background. The University of Southampton is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusivity across its research community.