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Intercollegiate Postgraduate Course in Particle Physics

This is the homepage of the intercollegiate postgraduate course in particle physics. The course is taken by all 1st year PhD students in particle physics at Brunel , King's College London , Queen Mary , Royal Holloway and UCL .

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This website incorporates the UCL Quantum Science & Technology Institute (UCLQ) and the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Delivering Quantum Technologies at UCL.

Quantum Mechanics And Gravity United at Last? University College of London Physicists Propose Radical Theory

Matt swayne.

• December 4, 2023

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Insider Brief

• String theory and loop quantum gravity are the current leading candidates for a quantum theory of gravity.
• New theory suggests that that spacetime may be classical and not governed by quantum theory at all.
• Professor Jonathan Oppenheim, UCL Physics & Astronomy, developed the new “postquantum theory of classical gravity”.
• Image: Isaac Young

PRESS RELEASE — A radical theory that consistently unifies gravity and quantum mechanics while preserving Einstein’s classical concept of spacetime is announced today in two papers published simultaneously by UCL (University College London) physicists.

Modern physics is founded upon two pillars: quantum theory on the one hand, which governs the smallest particles in the universe, and Einstein’s theory of general relativity on the other, which explains gravity through the bending of spacetime. But these two theories are in contradiction with each other and a reconciliation has remained elusive for over a century.

The prevailing assumption   has been that Einstein’s theory of gravity must be modified, or “quantised”, in order to fit within quantum theory. This is the approach of two leading candidates for a quantum theory of gravity, string theory and loop quantum gravity.

But a new theory, developed by Professor Jonathan Oppenheim (UCL Physics & Astronomy) and laid out in a new paper in  Physical Review X (PRX),  challenges that consensus and takes an alternative approach by suggesting that spacetime may be classical – that is, not governed by quantum theory at all.

Instead of modifying spacetime, the theory – dubbed a “postquantum theory of classical gravity” – modifies quantum theory and predicts an intrinsic breakdown in predictability that is mediated by spacetime itself. This results in random and violent fluctuations in spacetime that are larger than envisaged under quantum theory, rendering the apparent weight of objects unpredictable if measured precisely enough.

A second paper, published simultaneously in  Nature Communications  and led by Professor Oppenheim’s former PhD students,   looks at   some of the consequences of the theory, and proposes an experiment to test it: to measure a mass very precisely to see if its weight appears to fluctuate over time.

For example, the International Bureau of Weights and Measures in France routinely weigh a 1kg mass which used to be the 1kg standard. If the fluctuations in measurements of this 1kg mass are smaller than required for mathematical consistency, the theory can be ruled out.

The outcome of the experiment, or other evidence emerging which would confirm the quantum vs classical nature of spacetime, is the subject of a 5000:1 odds bet between Professor Oppenheim and Professor Carlo Rovelli and Dr Geoff Penington – leading proponents of quantum loop gravity and string theory respectively.  [link ]

For the past five years, the UCL research group has been stress-testing the theory, and exploring its consequences.

Professor Oppenheim said: “Quantum theory and Einstein’s theory of general relativity are mathematically incompatible with each other, so it’s important to understand how this contradiction is resolved. Should spacetime be quantised, or should we modify quantum theory, or is it something else entirely? Now that we have a consistent fundamental theory in which spacetime does not get quantised, it’s anybody’s guess.”

Co-author Zach Weller-Davies, who as a PhD student at UCL helped develop the experimental proposal and made key contributions to the theory itself, said: “This discovery challenges our understanding of the fundamental nature of gravity but also offers avenues to probe its potential quantum nature.

“We have shown that if spacetime doesn’t have a quantum nature, then there must be random fluctuations in the curvature of spacetime which have a particular signature that can be verified experimentally.

“In both quantum gravity and classical gravity, spacetime must be undergoing violent and random fluctuations all around us, but on a scale which we haven’t yet been able to detect. But if spacetime is classical, the fluctuations have to be larger than a certain scale, and this scale can be determined by another experiment where we test how long we can put a heavy atom in superposition* of being in two different locations.”

Co-authors Dr Carlo Sparaciari and Dr Barbara Šoda, whose analytical and numerical calculations helped guide the project, expressed hope that these experiments could determine whether the pursuit of a quantum theory of gravity is the right approach.

Dr Šoda (formerly UCL Physics & Astronomy, now at the Perimeter Institute of Theoretical Physics, Canada) said: “Because gravity is made manifest through the bending of space and time, we can think of the question in terms of whether the rate at which time flows has a quantum nature, or classical nature.

“And testing this is almost as simple as testing whether the weight of a mass is constant, or appears to fluctuate in a particular way.”

Dr Sparaciari (UCL Physics & Astronomy) said: “While the experimental concept is simple, the weighing of the object needs to be carried out with extreme precision.

“But what I find exciting is that starting from very general assumptions, we can prove a clear relationship between two measurable quantities – the scale of the spacetime fluctuations, and how long objects like atoms or apples can be put in quantum superposition of two different locations. We can then determine these two quantities experimentally.”

Weller-Davies added: “A delicate interplay must exist if quantum particles such as atoms are able to bend classical spacetime. There must be a fundamental trade-off between the wave nature of atoms, and how large the random fluctuations in spacetime need to be.”

The proposal to test whether spacetime is classical by looking for random fluctuations in mass is complementary to another experimental proposal which aims to verify the quantum nature of spacetime by looking for something called “gravitationally mediated entanglement.”

Professor Sougato Bose (UCL Physics & Astronomy), who was not involved with the announcement today, but was among those to first propose the entanglement experiment, said: “Experiments to test the nature of spacetime will take a large-scale effort, but they’re of huge importance from the perspective of understanding the fundamental laws of nature. I believe these experiments are within reach – these things are difficult to predict, but perhaps we’ll know the answer within the next 20 years.”

The postquantum theory has implications beyond gravity. The infamous and problematic “measurement postulate” of quantum theory is not needed, since quantum superpositions necessarily localise through their interaction with classical spacetime.

The theory was motivated by Professor Oppenheim’s attempt to resolve the black hole information problem. According to standard quantum theory, an object going into a black hole should be radiated back out in some way as information cannot be destroyed, but this violates general relativity, which says you can never know about objects that cross the black hole’s event horizon. The new theory allows for information to be destroyed, due to a fundamental breakdown in predictability.

* Background information

Quantum mechanics background : All the matter in the universe obeys the laws of quantum theory, but we only really observe quantum behaviour at the scale of atoms and molecules. Quantum theory tells us that particles obey Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle, and we can never know their position or velocity at the same time. In fact, they don’t even have a definite position or velocity until we measure them. Particles like electrons can behave more like waves and act almost as if they can be in many places at once (more precisely, physicists describe particles as being in a “superposition” of different locations).

Quantum theory governs everything from semiconductors which are ubiquitous in computer chips, to lasers, to superconductivity to radioactive decay. In contrast, we say that a system behaves classically if it has definite underlying properties. A cat appears to behave classically – it is either dead or alive, not both, nor in a superposition of being dead and alive. Why do cats behave classically, and small particles quantumly? We don’t know, but the postquantum theory doesn’t require the measurement postulate, because the classicality of spacetime infects quantum systems and causes them to localise.

Gravity background:  Newton’s theory of gravity, gave way to Einstein’s theory of general relativity (GR), which holds that gravity is not a force in the usual sense. Instead, heavy objects such as the sun, bend the fabric of spacetime in such a way that causes the earth to revolve around it. Spacetime is just a mathematical object consisting of the three dimensions of space, and time considered as a fourth dimension. General relativity predicted the formation of black holes and the big bang. It holds that time flows at different rates at different points in space, and the GPS in your smartphone needs to account for this in order to properly determine your location.

Historical context:  The framework presented by Oppenheim in PRX, and in a companion paper with Sparaciari, Šoda and Weller-Davies, derives the most general consistent form of dynamics in which a quantum system interacts with a classical system. It then applies this framework to the case of general relativity coupled to quantum fields theory. It builds on earlier work and a community of physicists. An experiment to test the quantum nature of gravity via gravitationally mediated entanglement was proposed by Bose et. al. and by C. Marletto and V. Vadral. Two examples of consistent classical-quantum dynamics were discovered in the 90’s by Ph. Blanchard and A. Jadzyk, and by Lajos Diosi, and again by David Poulin around 2017. From a different perspective, in 2014 a model of Newtonian gravity coupled to quantum systems via a “measurement-and-feedback” approach, was presented by Diosi and Antoinne Tilloy in 2016, and by D Kafri, J. Taylor, and G. Milburn, in 2014. The idea that gravity might be somehow related to the collapse of the wavefunction, dates back to F. Karolyhazy (1966), L. Diosi (1987) and R. Penrose (1996). That classical-quantum couplings might explain localistation of the wavefunction has been suggested by others including M. Hall and M. Reginatto, Diosi and Tilloy, and David Poulin. The idea that spacetime might be classical dates back to I. Sato (1950), and C. Moller (1962), but no consistent theory was found until now.

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New theory unites Einstein’s gravity with quantum mechanics

A radical theory that consistently unifies gravity and quantum mechanics while preserving Einstein’s classical concept of spacetime is announced today in two papers published simultaneously by UCL physicists

University College London

The image depicts an experiment in which heavy particles(illustrated as the moon), cause an interference pattern (a quantum effect), while also bendingspacetime. The hanging pendulums depict the measurement of spacetime. The actual experiment istypically performed using Carbon-60, one of the largest known molecules. The UCL calculationindicates that the experiment should also be performed using higher density atoms such as gold. The other two images represent the two experiments proposed by the UCL group, both of whichconstrain any theory where spacetime is treated classically. One is the weighing of a mass, the otheris an interference experiment.

Credit: Isaac Young

A radical theory that consistently unifies gravity and quantum mechanics while preserving Einstein’s classical concept of spacetime is announced today in two papers published simultaneously by UCL (University College London) physicists.

Modern physics is founded upon two pillars: quantum theory on the one hand, which governs the smallest particles in the universe, and Einstein’s theory of general relativity on the other, which explains gravity through the bending of spacetime. But these two theories are in contradiction with each other and a reconciliation has remained elusive for over a century.

The prevailing assumption has been that Einstein’s theory of gravity must be modified, or “quantised”, in order to fit within quantum theory. This is the approach of two leading candidates for a quantum theory of gravity, string theory and loop quantum gravity.

But a new theory, developed by Professor Jonathan Oppenheim (UCL Physics & Astronomy) and laid out in a new paper in Physical Review X (PRX), challenges that consensus and takes an alternative approach by suggesting that spacetime may be classical – that is, not governed by quantum theory at all. 

Instead of modifying spacetime, the theory - dubbed a “postquantum theory of classical gravity” - modifies quantum theory and predicts an intrinsic breakdown in predictability that is mediated by spacetime itself. This results in random and violent fluctuations in spacetime that are larger than envisaged under quantum theory, rendering the apparent weight of objects unpredictable if measured precisely enough.  

A second paper, published simultaneously in Nature Communications and led by Professor Oppenheim’s former PhD students, looks at some of the consequences of the theory, and proposes an experiment to test it: to measure a mass very precisely to see if its weight appears to fluctuate over time. 

For example, the International Bureau of Weights and Measures in France routinely weigh a 1kg mass which used to be the 1kg standard. If the fluctuations in measurements of this 1kg mass are smaller than required for mathematical consistency, the theory can be ruled out. 

The outcome of the experiment, or other evidence emerging which would confirm the quantum vs classical nature of spacetime, is the subject of a 5000:1 odds bet between Professor Oppenheim and Professor Carlo Rovelli and Dr Geoff Penington – leading proponents of quantum loop gravity and string theory respectively. [link ]

For the past five years, the UCL research group has been stress-testing the theory, and exploring its consequences. 

Professor Oppenheim said: "Quantum theory and Einstein's theory of general relativity are mathematically incompatible with each other, so it's important to understand how this contradiction is resolved. Should spacetime be quantised, or should we modify quantum theory, or is it something else entirely? Now that we have a consistent fundamental theory in which spacetime does not get quantised, it’s anybody’s guess.”

Co-author Zach Weller-Davies, who as a PhD student at UCL helped develop the experimental proposal and made key contributions to the theory itself, said: "This discovery challenges our understanding of the fundamental nature of gravity but also offers avenues to probe its potential quantum nature.

“We have shown that if spacetime doesn’t have a quantum nature, then there must be random fluctuations in the curvature of spacetime which have a particular signature that can be verified experimentally.

“In both quantum gravity and classical gravity, spacetime must be undergoing violent and random fluctuations all around us, but on a scale which we haven’t yet been able to detect. But if spacetime is classical, the fluctuations have to be larger than a certain scale, and this scale can be determined by another experiment where we test how long we can put a heavy atom in superposition* of being in two different locations."

Co-authors Dr Carlo Sparaciari and Dr Barbara Šoda, whose analytical and numerical calculations helped guide the project, expressed hope that these experiments could determine whether the pursuit of a quantum theory of gravity is the right approach. 

Dr Šoda (formerly UCL Physics & Astronomy, now at the Perimeter Institute of Theoretical Physics, Canada) said: “Because gravity is made manifest through the bending of space and time, we can think of the question in terms of whether the rate at which time flows has a quantum nature, or classical nature. 

“And testing this is almost as simple as testing whether the weight of a mass is constant, or appears to fluctuate in a particular way.”

Dr Sparaciari (UCL Physics & Astronomy) said: “While the experimental concept is simple, the weighing of the object needs to be carried out with extreme precision. 

“But what I find exciting is that starting from very general assumptions, we can prove a clear relationship between two measurable quantities – the scale of the spacetime fluctuations, and how long objects like atoms or apples can be put in quantum superposition of two different locations. We can then determine these two quantities experimentally.”  

Weller-Davies added: “A delicate interplay must exist if quantum particles such as atoms are able to bend classical spacetime. There must be a fundamental trade-off between the wave nature of atoms, and how large the random fluctuations in spacetime need to be.”

The proposal to test whether spacetime is classical by looking for random fluctuations in mass is complementary to another experimental proposal which aims to verify the quantum nature of spacetime by looking for something called “gravitationally mediated entanglement.” 

Professor Sougato Bose (UCL Physics & Astronomy), who was not involved with the announcement today, but was among those to first propose the entanglement experiment, said: “Experiments to test the nature of spacetime will take a large-scale effort, but they're of huge importance from the perspective of understanding the fundamental laws of nature. I believe these experiments are within reach – these things are difficult to predict, but perhaps we'll know the answer within the next 20 years.”

The postquantum theory has implications beyond gravity. The infamous and problematic “measurement postulate” of quantum theory is not needed, since quantum superpositions necessarily localise through their interaction with classical spacetime.  

The theory was motivated by Professor Oppenheim’s attempt to resolve the black hole information problem. According to standard quantum theory, an object going into a black hole should be radiated back out in some way as information cannot be destroyed, but this violates general relativity, which says you can never know about objects that cross the black hole’s event horizon. The new theory allows for information to be destroyed, due to a fundamental breakdown in predictability.

* Background information

Quantum mechanics background : All the matter in the universe obeys the laws of quantum theory, but we only really observe quantum behaviour at the scale of atoms and molecules. Quantum theory tells us that particles obey Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle, and we can never know their position or velocity at the same time. In fact, they don’t even have a definite position or velocity until we measure them. Particles like electrons can behave more like waves and act almost as if they can be in many places at once (more precisely, physicists describe particles as being in a “superposition” of different locations). 

Quantum theory governs everything from semiconductors which are ubiquitous in computer chips, to lasers, to superconductivity to radioactive decay. In contrast, we say that a system behaves classically if it has definite underlying properties. A cat appears to behave classically – it is either dead or alive, not both, nor in a superposition of being dead and alive. Why do cats behave classically, and small particles quantumly? We don’t know, but the postquantum theory doesn’t require the measurement postulate, because the classicality of spacetime infects quantum systems and causes them to localise.

Gravity background: Newton’s theory of gravity, gave way to Einstein’s theory of general relativity (GR), which holds that gravity is not a force in the usual sense. Instead, heavy objects such as the sun, bend the fabric of spacetime in such a way that causes the earth to revolve around it. Spacetime is just a mathematical object consisting of the three dimensions of space, and time considered as a fourth dimension. General relativity predicted the formation of black holes and the big bang. It holds that time flows at different rates at different points in space, and the GPS in your smartphone needs to account for this in order to properly determine your location.

Historical context: The framework presented by Oppenheim in PRX, and in a companion paper with Sparaciari, Šoda and Weller-Davies, derives the most general consistent form of dynamics in which a quantum system interacts with a classical system. It then applies this framework to the case of general relativity coupled to quantum fields theory. It builds on earlier work and a community of physicists. An experiment to test the quantum nature of gravity via gravitationally mediated entanglement was proposed by Bose et. al. and by C. Marletto and V. Vadral. Two examples of consistent classical-quantum dynamics were discovered in the 90’s by Ph. Blanchard and A. Jadzyk, and by Lajos Diosi, and again by David Poulin around 2017. From a different perspective, in 2014 a model of Newtonian gravity coupled to quantum systems via a “measurement-and-feedback” approach, was presented by Diosi and Antoinne Tilloy in 2016, and by D Kafri, J. Taylor, and G. Milburn, in 2014. The idea that gravity might be somehow related to the collapse of the wavefunction, dates back to F. Karolyhazy (1966), L. Diosi (1987) and R. Penrose (1996). That classical-quantum couplings might explain localistation of the wavefunction has been suggested by others including M. Hall and M. Reginatto, Diosi and Tilloy, and David Poulin. The idea that spacetime might be classical dates back to I. Sato (1950), and C. Moller (1962), but no consistent theory was found until now. 

Physical Review X

Subject of Research

Not applicable

Article Title

A postquantum theory of classical gravity?

Article Publication Date

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Theoretical Physics BSc

This three-year programme offers a variant of the advanced study offered in the Physics BSc. You will develop specialised knowledge of the theoretical structure of the core topics in physics. The programme is likely to appeal to you if you have a strong interest and ability in mathematics.

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For entry requirements with other UK qualifications accepted by UCL, choose your qualification from the list below:

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Collaborative links with both industry and international research laboratories provide insight into the practical application of your studies.

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This programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics . Holders of accredited degrees can follow a route to Institute of Physics membership and the Chartered Physicist (CPhys) professional qualification. Graduates of accredited Integrated Master's (MPhys or MSci) degrees have fulfilled the educational requirements for CPhys status, while graduates of accredited Bachelor's (BSc) degrees have partially fulfilled these requirements.

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Core modules in the first year provide a firm foundation in quantum and classical physics, underpinned by mathematics and a practical skills module which includes computing skills training. You will also take a module in practical mathematics. The second year includes core modules in quantum physics and its application to atoms and molecules, in statistical thermodynamics and in electromagnetic theory, along with further mathematics. The quantum and condensed matter elements of the core are completed in the third year. Students reading for the Theoretical Physics degree replace second and third-year experimental work with theory modules.

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Classical Mechanics Mathematical Methods I Mathematical Methods II Physics of the Universe Practical Mathematics I Practical Skills 1C Thermal Physics Waves, Optics and Acoustics

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Atomic and Molecular Physics Electricity and Magnetism Mathematics for Physics and Astronomy Mathematical Methods for Theoretical Physics Mathematical Methods III Practical Mathematics 2 Quantum Physics Statistical Thermodynamics

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Electromagnetic Theory Group Project Nuclear and Particle Physics Quantum Mechanics Solid State Physics

You will select your remaining 1.5 credits from a wide range of optional modules. Options may include: Energy and Climate Fluid Mechanics Lasers and Modern Optics Mathematics for General Relativity Physical Cosmology Physics of Oceans, Ice Sheets and Climate (1.0 credits) Scientific Computing Using Object Oriented Languages Theory of Dynamical Systems

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Assessment will normally involve end-of-year examinations, and an element of assessed coursework. Practical work you will be continuously assessed.

Detailed module descriptions are available on the department website: Theoretical Physics BSc .

Your scientific training will equip you with an understanding of mathematics, and of physical principles and techniques, as well as transferable skills in analysis, rational argument and innovative problem-solving. Surveys by the IOP indicate that physicists' versatility is welcomed by a vast range of professions.

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Coil receives honorable mention for 2024 NSF Graduate Research Fellowship

Published: April 05, 2024

Author: Janet Weikel

Nuclear Science Lab researcher and ND Department of Physics and Astronomy undergraduate student Sydney Coil has been selected as an Honorable Mention for the 2024 National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship. Sydney worked as an undergraduate with Prof. Dan Bardayan and Dr. Patrick O'Malley on conversion of the TwinSol radioactive ion beam facility to TriSol and its subsequent use to study 18 F production in novae. Sydney has accepted admission into the graduate program in nuclear physics at Michigan State University. Inaugurated in 1952, the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program recognizes and supports outstanding students in the NSF-supported STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) disciplines who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees at accredited U.S. institutions. It is the oldest graduate fellowship of its kind.

UCL PhD Positions 2024 in Quantum Technologies

Hello, dear readers! Today, let’s dive into the world of quantum technologies and explore the exciting opportunities awaiting at UCL (University College London) for the year 2024. For anyone with a keen interest in advancing their knowledge and research in quantum technologies, UCL is paving the way with some incredible PhD positions. Plus, there’s a silver lining – scholarships that might just make your academic journey a little easier. So, grab a cup of your favorite beverage, and let’s get into the details.

Table of Contents

Quantum technologies are reshaping our world, from revolutionizing computing and secure communications to transformative impacts on navigation systems, medical imaging, and beyond. UCL, recognized for its pioneering research, is offering PhD positions in 2024 that will immerse you in this fascinating world.

Imagine being part of a team that’s pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, working in state-of-the-art facilities with leading experts. Whether you’re coming from a physics background, engineering, computer science, or even applied mathematics, there’s a place for you here. The multidisciplinary environment at UCL ensures that you’d be at the heart of innovation, contributing to research that could define the future of technology.

What You Need to Know

Securing a PhD position at UCL in quantum technologies means you’ll be part of a vibrant community. You’ll work on real-world problems, with access to cutting-edge equipment and methodologies. The topics can range from quantum computing and simulation to quantum sensing and cryptography. The focus is on nurturing scientists who are not only versed in theory but can also drive technological advancements.

List of UCL PhD Scholarships 2024

Funding your PhD can sometimes feel like a massive obstacle, but let me share with you some good news. UCL offers a range of scholarships for its PhD students in quantum technologies . These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden and ensure that the brightest minds have the opportunity to shine, regardless of their economic background.

1# Fundamental Physics and Applications with Quantum Levitated Optomechanics

Supervisor: Peter Barker Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 2# Electric Field Control of Quasiparticle Wavefunctions in Organic Semiconductors

Supervisor: Jochen Blumberger Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 3# Solid-state Cavity Quantum Electrodynamics

Supervisor: Jon Breeze Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 4# Quantum Sensing Technology and Effective Computational Models for Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease

Supervisor: Neil Burgess Location: UCL, Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience 5# Quantum Metrology with Triatomic Molecules to Probe Physics Beyond the Standard Model

Supervisor: Luke Caldwell Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 6# Picosecond Accuracy Time Synchronisation for Quantum Communication Networks

Supervisor: Kari Clark Location: UCL, Electronic and Electrical Engineering 7# Fabricating Single Atom Lattices to Explore Quantum Science and Technology

Supervisor: Taylor Stock Location: UCL, London Centre for Nanotechnology 8# Coherence and Entanglement in the Attosecond Domain

Supervisor: Carla Figueira de Morisson Faria Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 9# Tensor Networks for Quantum Simulation and Quantum Software

Supervisor: Andrew Green Location: UCL, London Centre for Nanotechnology 10# Hybrid Quantum Information Processing with Rydberg Atoms and Superconducting Circuits

Supervisor: Stephen Hogan Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 11# An Electrically Addressable Spin Qubit in InGaAs

Supervisor: Stuart Holmes Location: UCL, Electronic and Electrical Engineering 12# Engineering Correlation Effects in Quantum Structures

Supervisor: Sanjeev Kumar Location: UCL, Electronic and Electrical Engineering 13# Coherent Coupling Between Magnons and Photons Using Superconducting Resonators at the Two-dimensional Limit

Supervisor: Hidekazu Kurebayashi Location: UCL, London Centre for Nanotechnology 14# Quantum Sensing for Biology with Optically Addressable Spin Defects

Supervisor: Benjamin Miller Location: UCL, London Centre for Nanotechnology/Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering 15# Superconducting Quantum Circuits for High-sensitivity Magnetic Resonance

Supervisor: John Morton Location: UCL, London Centre for Nanotechnology 16# Investigating Quantum Advantage of Non-classical Light Sources for Control of Biological Systems

Supervisor: Alexandra Olaya-Castro Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 17# Precision Tests on the Quantum Nature of Gravity

Supervisor: Jonathan Oppenheim Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 18# New Quantum Phenomena in Semiconductor Nanostructures

Supervisor: Michael Pepper Location: UCL, London Centre for Nanotechnology 19# Next-generation Quantum Sensors for Medical Applications

Supervisor: Ferruccio Renzoni Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 20# Magnetic Domain Fluctuations

Supervisor: Ian Robinson Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 21# Fabrication and Measurement of Atomic-Scale Devices: Toward Quantum Computing in Germanium

Supervisor: Steven Schofield Location: UCL, London Centre for Nanotechnology 22# Mechanisms of Defect Processes in 2D Quantum Devices

Supervisor: Alexander Shluger Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 23# Polariton and Circuit QED Lattices: Quantum Simulations of Correlated and Topological States

Supervisor: Marzena Szymanska Location: UCL, Physics & Astronomy 24# Quantum Amplification Using Superconducting Nanowires

Supervisor: Paul Warburton Location: UCL, London Centre for Nanotechnology000

Types of Scholarships Available

Merit-based Scholarships: These are awarded based on your academic and research achievements. It’s all about what you’ve accomplished and the potential you show.

Need-based Scholarships: If finances are a concern, these scholarships can provide the support you need, making your dream of pursuing a PhD at UCL more achievable.

Project-specific Funding: Some research projects come with their own funding. This means if your research interests align with these projects, your financial woes might just be taken care of.

External Funding: Don’t forget to look outside UCL as well. There are plenty of organizations eager to support quantum technologies research, from governmental bodies to private foundations.

How to Apply

Applying for a scholarship can seem daunting, but it’s truly worth the effort. Make sure to prepare your application meticulously, highlighting your academic achievements, research experiences, and explaining why you’re passionate about quantum technologies. Remember, deadlines are crucial, so mark them on your calendar and double-check you’ve got everything in order.

Personal Anecdote: During my PhD journey, securing a scholarship felt like finding a golden ticket. It wasn’t just about the financial relief; it was the confidence boost, knowing that an institution believed in my potential. So put your heart into your application – it can really make a difference!

In Conclusion

Embarking on a PhD in Quantum Technologies at UCL in 2024 is like stepping onto the bridge of the Starship Enterprise – a journey into the unknown with limitless possibilities. If you’ve got a curious mind and a passion for what lies beyond the horizon of current technologies, this is your calling.

So, whether you’re drawn by the allure of uncharted scientific territories or the practical aspects of a well-supported PhD journey, UCL’s offerings in 2024 are worth considering. Remember, the future of quantum technologies is not just about what’s happening in the labs right now; it’s about what you will bring to the field. And who knows? The next big breakthrough in quantum technologies could have your name on it.

Feeling inspired? Time to get your applications ready, and perhaps I’ll see you at UCL, pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Let’s make the quantum leap together!

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UCL LLM graduate, Dheemanth Vangimalla, wins an international research essay prize

3 April 2024

UCL Laws LLM graduate, Dheemanth Vangimalla, wins the top award in the 4iP Council Research Awards 2023 for a paper based on his LLM research dissertation.

We are delighted to announce that Dheemanth Vangimalla, a recent UCL Laws graduate of the LLM in Intellectual Property Law has received the top award in the prestigious 4iP Council Research Awards for 2023 for his paper entitled ‘Plausibility and the flotilla: have the English courts drifted from the commodore’s approach to the evidential requirement for patent validity, and if so, is this divergence justified?’

The 4iP Council Research Award is an international research competition for European University students studying at Masters and PhD levels. It seeks to promote new ideas on topics pertinent to the interplay between intellectual property rights and innovation. Submissions, based on a student’s Masters or PhD research, are assessed by 4iP Council’s Research Award Jury made up of intellectual property experts from academia, government and industry. The papers are evaluated based on criteria including:

• Original thinking that broadens the debate on the chosen topic;
• High quality written expression; and
• Relevance to current IP problems and debate

and up to three prizes are awarded (winner and two runners-up).

In his winning paper, Dheemanth considered the origins of ‘plausibility’ and explored the evidential requirement that the term represents. His research revealed that there is divergence between the EPO and English courts in the evidential standard applied by the two decision-making bodies when assessing patent validity. He argues that the English courts adopting a higher standard lacks cogent justification as the standard neither reflects a balance between the competing objectives of the patent system nor limits a plausibility assessment to its targeted mischief. 

This paper was based on Dheemanth’s dissertation for his LLM in Intellectual Property Law, which was also recently awarded the IBIL Prize for Top Performance in an IP-related Research Essay on the LLM . During his LLM, Dheemanth was supervised by our IBIL scholarship PhD researcher, Joshua Bradley .

As part of the prize, the winning essay has been published on 4iP Council’s website , which will be accompanied by a podcast interview with the winners in due course.

Having completed his LLM in the summer of 2023, Dheemanth has been working as a Research Assistant at the UCL Institute of Brand and Innovation Law  (IBIL), while also completing his bar exams. He will join Three New Square Chambers in the autumn as a pupil barrister.

• Read Dheemanth’s paper here .
• Find out more about the 4iP Council Research Awards .

Three physics students earn 2024 NSF GRFP awards, four students earn honorable mention

Congrats to Physics PhD student Joyce Lin and undergraduates Brooke Kotten and Lucy Steffes on being awarded the 2024 NSF GRFP! PhD students Owen Eskandari, Sam Kramer, Tali Oh, and Julia Sheffler were awarded Honorable Mentions.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) recently announced the 2024 awards in its Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) , a prestigious and competitive fellowship that helps support outstanding graduate research across the country.

Of those offered awards, 19 are currently UW–Madison graduate students . Seven current UW–Madison undergraduates were also offered the award for their graduate study. Additionally, 33 UW–Madison students were recognized with honorable mentions from NSF.

UW–Madison strongly encourages senior undergraduates and early-career graduate students to apply to this fellowship.

FAT1 weighted MRI: diffusion meets anatomical imaging and application in thalamic surgery for tremor

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Taco Goedemans , Francisca Ferreira , Thomas Wirth , Lonneke van der Weerd , Flavia V. Massey , Marie T. Krüger , Vanessa Milanese , Ashkan Pakzad , Thomas Foltynie , Patricia Limousin , Maarten Bot , Pepijn van den Munckhof , Rick Schuurman , Ludvic Zrinzo , Harith Akram; FAT1 weighted MRI: diffusion meets anatomical imaging and application in thalamic surgery for tremor. Imaging Neuroscience 2024; doi: https://doi.org/10.1162/imag_a_00139

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Patient specific targeting of the Ventral intermediate nucleus (Vim) of the thalamus can be achieved with MR connectivity. Nevertheless, there are several drawbacks to using tractography based targeting methods to visualise distinct thalamic nuclei (e.g., subjective region of interest selection, and thresholding of resulting tracts and clusters). Fractional anisotropy (FA) mapping, another product of diffusion MRI (dMRI), does not rely on tractography, and could thus be clinically more viable for discerning thalamic anatomy for stereotactic surgery. The aim of this study is to develop and present a hybrid, high resolution and high-fidelity imaging modality that combines contrast from FA maps as well as anatomical T1 sequences (FAT1 imaging); and to evaluate FAT1 based Vim-target definition. Imaging and outcome data of 35 consecutive refractory tremor patients who had undergone 43 connectivity guided deep brain stimulation (DBS) and/or radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RF-T) between 2013 and 2021 were included. First, the pre-operatively acquired dMRI and MPRAGE sequences were used to create FAT1 maps in retrospect. Then, a FAT1 based Vim-target was planned by an experienced functional neurosurgeon who was blinded for patient outcome. Finally, to investigate FAT1 based targeting, a post-hoc analysis was carried out of the degree of overlap between the newly created FAT1 based Vim-target, and the volume of tissue activation (VTA, in case of DBS) or lesion volume (in case of RF-T). This degree of overlap was compared between favourable and unfavourable outcome groups: outcomes were measured by experts blinded for imaging data at the last follow-up using a Clinical Global Impression-Improvement score (CGI-I), where a CGI-I score of 1-2 (i.e. FTMTRS improvement of ≥50%) was considered favourable. In 36 of the 43 (84%) performed surgeries (24 DBS and 19 RF-T), FAT1 based Vim-targeting was possible. For the group showing favourable outcome (71% of the patients at a median follow-up of 13 months), the mean amount of overlap between the FAT1 based Vim-target and the VTA or lesion was 42% (±13), versus 17% (±15) for patients with an unfavourable outcome (MD 25%, 95% CI 14— 35, p<0.0001). Retrospective use of FAT1 based Vim-targeting as a tool to predict outcome had a sensitivity of 90%, specificity of 80%, positive predictive value of 90% and negative predictive value of 80%. In conclusion, FAT1 imaging is a new, high resolution and high-fidelity modality that combines diffusion and anatomical MRI. It provides a fast and efficacious way of targeting the ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus. In this study, FAT1 based targeting was highly accurate in predicting outcomes after deep brain stimulation and radiofrequency thalamotomy

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Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

2024 phd graduate – optical/electrical/computer engineering – imaging systems.

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Are you passionate about optical sensing, computer vision, and/or all things imaging?

Are you searching for an opportunity to apply your engineering skills in a creative and collaborative laboratory environment?

Would you love to engage in meaningful, hands-on work with an employer that prioritizes impact, innovation, and personal development?

If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)!

We are seeking a creative PhD new graduate to join the Imaging Systems Group. As a member of our team, you will contribute to critical system development and experimental efforts. You will be joining a diverse team committed to crafting an environment of innovation.

As a member of our team…

• Your primary responsibility will be to develop, evaluate, and deploy imaging system hardware, algorithms, and/or software.
• You will assist in the brainstorming and development of new initiatives/concepts in optical imaging through internal research and development (IR&D) efforts.
• You will capture technical contributions in internal me/reports and conference/journal papers, and present findings and recommendations at internal and external forums.
• You will support field integration and testing activities of developed systems.

Minimum requirements for your role include…

• Have a PhD in electrical/computer engineering, optical engineering, imaging science, computer vision, or equivalent.
• Have demonstrated the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team and possess strong interpersonal, speaking, and technical writing skills.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret Clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You will go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you…

• Have a intern experience in electrical/computer engineering, optical engineering, imaging science, computer vision, or similar.
• Have an active Secret level security clearance.

Why work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

APL is committed to promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [email protected]. Only by ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.

We respectfully acknowledge the University of Arizona is on the land and territories of Indigenous peoples. Today, Arizona is home to 22 federally recognized tribes, with Tucson being home to the O'odham and the Yaqui. Committed to diversity and inclusion, the University strives to build sustainable relationships with sovereign Native Nations and Indigenous communities through education offerings, partnerships, and community service.