Imaging quantum light-matter interactions at the scale of single atoms

Taking static images with atomic resolution has been possible for nearly 50 years, using the scanning tunnelling microscope (STM), which exploits quantum tunnelling between a sharp tip and a sample to build up images. This powerful technique has unlocked countless discoveries across physics and chemistry, yet, these static images are only one half of the picture – equally important is the evolution of quantum systems in time. Recently – by coupling ultra-short (<10^-12 s) pulses of light into an STM it has finally become possible to add an ultrafast temporal dimension to our measurements, creating the first ever videos of atomic-scale quantum dynamics. This cutting-edge combination is beginning to unveil fundamental new physical tunnelling processes, alongside new insights into the dynamics of quantum materials. Ultimately, this bottom-up approach will bring new insights into future quantum technologies, from computation to communication or sensing.

This PhD will focus on developing the new scientific field of ultrafast scanning tunnelling microscopy, as well as applying them to several important material systems. This could include (but is not limited to) atomic imaging of excitations in 2-dimensional materials (such as graphene), the motion of electrons within single molecules, or how materials can go through phase transitions on femtosecond timescales.

The PhD candidate should have completed (or about to complete) their undergraduate degree in Physics, or a closely related subject, with at least a 2:1. Ideally you will have an interest in Lasers and light-matter interactions, alongside how these could be used to learn new information about materials.

The project will take place in the group of Dr Tom Siday (https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/physics/siday-thomas), part of the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics group (https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/physics/quantum/metamaterials/index.aspx) in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Birmingham. There will also be opportunities to collaborate closely with several external universities such as Oxford, UCL and Regensburg (Germany).

The School of Physics and Astronomy is an Institute of Physics Juno Champion since 2014 and holder of the Athena SWAN Silver Award. Both initiatives recognise the School’s commitment to promote diversity and equality, and to encourage better practice for all members of the community, whilst also working towards developing an equitable working culture in which all students and staff can achieve their full potential. We welcome applications from all qualified applicants and encourage applications from traditionally under-represented groups in physics and astronomy including, but not limited to, women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic.