The University of Sheffield Hub research team are offering a fully funded EPSRC PhD studentship in telecom-wavelength single-photon sources. The successful candidate will be supervised by Prof. A.M. Fox and will be based at the Department of Physics & Astronomy, University of Sheffield. 

Semiconductor quantum dots are considered to be one of the best candidates to serve as the quantum emitters in quantum communication networks. In our research group we have developed an extremely fast single-photon source based on semiconductor quantum dots that emit around 900 nm [1]. However, the optimal wavelength for quantum
communication channels using optical fibres is 1550 nm, where the losses of the fibres are lowest. The goal of this project is to develop a quantum dot single-source that operates at the telecom C-band wavelength range around 1550 nm, and to test it in quantum communication systems at collaborator laboratories within the UK Quantum Communications Hub. This will involve developing quantum-dot sources using InAs/InP quantum dots made at the University of Sheffield [2] and applying nano-photonic techniques to increase the emission rate. The project will involve advanced experimental work using state-of-the-art techniques of nanophotonic spectroscopy and quantum optics.

1. F. Liu, et al., High Purcell factor generation of indistinguishable on-chip single photons, Nature Nanotechnology 13, 835 (2018).
2. E. M. Sala, et al., Droplet epitaxy of InAs/InP quantum dots via MOVPE by using an InGaAs interlayer, Nanotechnology 33, 065601 (2021).

Open to: Worldwide
Deadline: Applications accepted all year round
Funding: EPSRC funding is available for this project for UK students. Students from outside the UK can apply for funding on a competitive basis.
Relevant categories of physics: Semiconductor physics; photonics; quantum optics, quantum communications

For more information and to apply, visit this link.