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  • PhD Vacancy - Active Photonic Resonator Thermometry (Quantum Thermometry)
About the Role
Temperature is one of the most familiar measurable quantities that influences our lives. It is also a key quantity controlling biochemical processes, for example in the body, or in the manufacture of chemicals and pharmaceuticals. It also impacts the functionality and efficiency of many technologies for which controlling heat generation and dissipation, for example in microprocessor chips, is key to optimising their performance and energy use.
 
This is critically important to minimise carbon emissions from computer networks which are predicted to account for over 20% of all global energy use by the end of this decade. Current ways of measuring temperature suffer from two main issues: (i) the need for periodic calibration to a “known” traceable standard to mitigate sensor drift, and (ii) the challenge of measuring temperature on a sub-micron scale, e.g. inside electronic chips. This project aims to overcome these issues by developing an entirely new miniaturised on-chip approach that uses active quantum-confined semiconductor optical resonators.
 
The project will involve computer-based design and modelling as well as fabrication and then testing of the fabricated prototypes (the latter at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL)). In the project we will develop practical primary thermometry by active Ring Resonator Thermometry, providing temperature traceability at the point of measurement. We will demonstrate a fully integrated on-chip sensor with all the components (source, resonator [thermometer] and detector) micro-fabricated on one device. Our target uncertainty is ~0.1 K in range 80 - 350 K. 
About You
Qualifications required are: Physics, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering or degree in related subject - min 2:1 required Desirable skills/experience include: Experimental Physics, Integrated Engineering, Nanotechnology, Optical Physics, Quantum Mechanics, Semiconductors, Solid State Physics, Thermodynamics, Nanofabrication (training will be given in the latter and the student will have access to the world leading facilities within the James Watt Nanofabrication Centre at the University of Glasgow) The studentship is available to UK (home) students. It offers an enhanced stipend and covers home tuition fees for a period of four years. Irish nationals who are living in the Common Travel Area of the UK, EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status, and those with Indefinite Leave to remain status may also qualify for home fee status.
About Us

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. 

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. 

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.

We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. 

To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us. 

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