At a Glance
- Tasks: Engineer superconducting qubits and optimise their performance through advanced materials science.
- Company: University of Southampton, a leader in Quantum Technology Engineering.
- Benefits: £31k stipend, extensive training, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Flexible study options, commitment to diversity, and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join the forefront of quantum technology and make a real impact in cutting-edge research.
- Qualifications: Undergraduate degree (UK 2:1 or equivalent) required; no prior experience needed.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 31000 £ per year.
This project, within the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering at the University of Southampton, carries a UKRI TechExpert enhanced annual stipend around £31k for UK students. While researching the project outlined below you will also receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.
Superconducting qubits power today’s quantum computers, yet their fragile performance is limited by tiny material flaws. This project engineers the atomic-scale microstructure of Josephson junctions—optimising grain orientation, stress, and interfaces—for longer-lived, reproducible qubits. Students will combine advanced thin-film growth, microscopy, and cryogenic testing to engineer “perfect” quantum hardware.
Research objectives include:
- Thin Film Nanostructure Control: Study Al, Nb, and NbN thin films; deposition rate, substrate temperature, and post-deposition annealing to tune grain size, orientation, nanoscale texture, and residual stress.
- Barrier and Interface Engineering: Compare native thermal AlOx vs plasma vs Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) Al₂O₃ and explore epitaxial oxide barriers; characterise interfacial bonding, stoichiometry, and roughness.
- Device-Level Validation: Fabricate test JJ arrays, resonators, and transmons; correlate qubit metrics (T₁, T₂, Ic spread) with measured microstructure and interface chemistry.
- Design Rules and Process Map: Build deposition–microstructure–performance correlations to guide reproducible, scalable JJ fabrication.
Entry Requirements: Undergraduate degree (at least UK 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent).
Closing Date: 31 July 2026. International applicants must apply before 31 March 2026.
How to Apply: Please apply via the online portal and select: Programme type: Research Academic year: 2026/27 Full time or part time Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences Search for programme PhD Quantum Tech Eng. Please add the name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application. Applications should include your CV (resumé), 2 academic references, degree transcripts/certificates to date, and English language qualification (if applicable).
We are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity and give full consideration to applicants seeking part-time study. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
Engineering Perfect Superconducting Qubits - £31,000 A Year - No Experience Required in Southampton employer: University of Southampton
The University of Southampton is an outstanding employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and collaboration among its staff. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities and professional training, all while contributing to impactful marketing strategies that shape the future of education. Located in a vibrant city, the university promotes a healthy work-life balance and values diversity, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals looking to make a difference.
