Quantum technology encompasses all new technologies that require quantum physics to work. Sensors based on oscillating mechanical systems are an important class of these emerging technologies. They are promising candidates to improve current technology such as positioning systems, inertial navigation and force sensing; and to advance fundamental research, such as the search for the quantum nature of gravity.
For these vibrating systems to enter the quantum realm, a high degree of decoupling from the environment is required. One viable way is to use electromagnetic radiation to levitate these objects in vacuum. Levitation also has other advantages, such as a high degree of dynamic control and a sensor mass range spanning several orders of magnitude, from femtograms to nanograms. In the recent years, we have made great progresses in controlling the motion of such levitated systems down to the level of single quanta. This has allowed us, for example, to generate non-classical states of the surrounding electromagnetic environment. The next challenge is to extend quantum control to sensing applications.
You will answer the question: "How can quantum measurements and control techniques be used in macroscopic sensors?" First, you will set up a table-top experiment using optical tweezers to trap nano- and microspheres in vacuum, a quantum-limited detector to measure their motion and opto-electrical control actuations to generate the motion ground state. Then, you will implement new control schemes to generate non-classical motional states, in order to enhance our sensitivity to detect forces of both coherent and impulsive nature. With your work, you will enrich the family of quantum sensors and open up new applications for levitated systems, such as gas sensing and gravimetry.
Requirements:
To be considered for the position, you must have • MSc degree in Physics or a closely related field. • Excellent communication in English, both written and oral. • Passion for doing experimental research. • Interest in theoretical modelling of your experiment.
In addition, we appreciate experience in general experimental physics, optics and laser, nanomechanics and electronics, but it is not a requirement for applicants.
How to apply
Please submit your motivation letter, CV, a summary of your Master thesis, a list with grades of the courses that you took during your studies, and names and email addresses of two referees as one single PDF file and send it to M.Rossi-1@tudelft.nl. Please also arrange for these two reference letters to be sent to the same address.
Applications will remain open until the position is filled.
Quantum technology encompasses all new technologies that require quantum physics to work. Sensors based on oscillating mechanical systems are an important class of these emerging technologies. They are promising candidates to improve current technology such as positioning systems, inertial navigation and force sensing; and to advance fundamental research, such as the search for the quantum nature of gravity.
For these vibrating systems to enter the quantum realm, a high degree of decoupling from the environment is required. One viable way is to use electromagnetic radiation to levitate these objects in vacuum. Levitation also has other advantages, such as a high degree of dynamic control and a sensor mass range spanning several orders of magnitude, from femtograms to nanograms. In the recent years, we have made great progresses in controlling the motion of such levitated systems down to the level of single quanta. This has allowed us, for example, to generate non-classical states of the surrounding electromagnetic environment. The next challenge is to extend quantum control to sensing applications.
You will answer the question: "How can quantum measurements and control techniques be used in macroscopic sensors?" First, you will set up a table-top experiment using optical tweezers to trap nano- and microspheres in vacuum, a quantum-limited detector to measure their motion and opto-electrical control actuations to generate the motion ground state. Then, you will implement new control schemes to generate non-classical motional states, in order to enhance our sensitivity to detect forces of both coherent and impulsive nature. With your work, you will enrich the family of quantum sensors and open up new applications for levitated systems, such as gas sensing and gravimetry.
Requirements:
To be considered for the position, you must have• MSc degree in Physics or a closely related field.• Excellent communication in English, both written and oral.• Passion for doing experimental research.• Interest in theoretical modelling of your experiment.
In addition, we appreciate experience in general experimental physics, optics and laser, nanomechanics and electronics, but it is not a requirement for applicants.
