PhD Scholarship - Application of Quantum Optics Techniques

The School of Mathematics and Physics

UQ Physics is located in the School of Mathematics and Physics in the Faculty of Science. The Discipline is internationally recognised for its research excellence, and hosts a number of world-class research centres. Details of the research interests of academic staff may be accessed on the School’s web site at http://www.smp.uq.edu.au/

Physics is one of the University of Queensland’s top 30 research strengths, and the School of Mathematics and Physics is proud to support a major research effort in condensed matter physics. In the recent Excellence in Research for Australia 2015 assessment, the University of Queensland was rated “well-above international standard” in 02 Physical Sciences, as well as in the sub-categories 0204 Condensed Matter Physics and 0206 Quantum Physics.

The School of Mathematics and Physics has a total of 110 full-time academic staff members, and 21 professional staff who provide professional, technical and administrative support. The School teaches a comprehensive undergraduate program in physics, as well as performing service teaching for students of engineering and the life sciences. There is also an extensive postgraduate research program, which currently has more than one hundred Research Higher Degree students enrolled.

The role

A PhD opportunity is available for a student with a relevant Honours/Masters degree to join the Bowen Research Group at The University of Queensland. The successful candidate will be enrolled in a higher degree (PhD) by research at the University of Queensland and contribute to a research project in the field of laser observation and control of superfluid physics.

Domestic and international applicants are welcome to apply. Proposed start date of January 1, 2018.

Applicants must meet the University of Queensland's requirements for entry to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program, including English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements, detailed at http://www.uq.edu.au/grad-school/english-language-proficiency-requirements.

The project

A PhD project is available to apply quantum optics techniques and technologies to develop new tools for biological measurement and imaging. Measurements of micro- and nanoscale biological structures and dynamics are often severely constrained by photo damage introduced to the biological specimen by the intensity of light. This precludes, for example, measurements of the native dynamics of the motor molecules that are the machines of life – unravelling DNA, generating the energy that cells function on, and distributing nutrients around them. One focus of our laboratory is to develop quantum optics techniques and technologies – similar to those used in gravitational wave detection –  to improve microscopy of biological systems. We have, for instance, demonstrated the first quantum-enhanced biological measurements, and the first evanescent biosensors that operate beneath known biodamage thresholds. PhD projects are available both to further extend this quantum microscopy technology, and to apply it to important biological problems. Experience/interest in laser-based measurements, biophysics, quantum optics, an/or molecular biological would be an advantage.

Remuneration

Successful applicants will receive a tax-free stipend to cover living expenses up to $27,082 and will also be eligible to apply for funds through the School to support conference and research travel up to $4000.

Please note the different EOI closing dates below for international and domestic candidates leading up to the UQ Graduate School research higher degree application and scholarship round timelines as advertised on their website: https://graduate-school.uq.edu.au/scholarships.

Reference: 504734