(UoM – IIT KGP) Integrated Quantum Photon Sources Based on 2D Semiconductor Heterostructures

Applications are invited for an innovative split-site PhD position jointly hosted by the University of Manchester (UK) and IIT Kharagpur (India), focusing on the development of integrated quantum photon sources based on 2D semiconductor heterostructures. This four-year program offers a unique international research experience, combining advanced 2D quantum materials fabrication and device integration at IIT Kharagpur with cutting-edge quantum optical characterization at Manchester’s Photon Science Institute.

The successful candidate will spend the first year at IIT Kharagpur developing expertise in 2D semiconductor growth (MoSe2, WSe2) and heterostructure synthesis via CVD and van der Waals device integration and on chip optoelectronic device fabrication on-demand followed by two years at Manchester’s Photon Science Institute focusing on advanced optical characterization and quantum measurements, before returning to IIT Kharagpur for the final year of device optimization and integration. Key research activities include the development of COMSOL-based optical modelling, micro-transient absorption spectroscopy, scanning single-photon microscopy, and the fabrication of electronic-grade 2D heterostructures for quantum device applications.

The project will contribute to India’s National Quantum Mission through the development of scalable quantum light emitter sources for quantum communication applications.

Candidates should hold a Master’s degree in Physics, Materials Science, Electronic Engineering, or related fields, demonstrating strong backgrounds in optics, semiconductors, or quantum physics. Essential qualities include excellent experimental and analytical skills, willingness to work across international locations, and strong communication abilities. The position offers access to state-of-the-art facilities at both institutions, expert supervision from leading researchers in quantum photonics and 2D materials and heterostructures, and comprehensive training in advanced characterization techniques. This position represents an exceptional opportunity to develop expertise in physics, materials science, photonics and quantum technology while building an international research network at the forefront of quantum photonics research.

Before you apply  

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project. 

How to apply 

You will need to submit an online application through the IIT Kharagpur’s website here: https://international.iitkgp.ac.in/admission/jdp-uoman/ The site also lists documents that will be required as part of your application

If you require an English qualification to study in the UK, you can apply now and send this in at a later date. 

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact the admissions team(s) by email: 

– University of Manchester: [email protected]  

– IIT Kharagpur: [email protected] 

Eligibility 

1. Candidates may only apply for projects approved by the Joint Academic Board. 

2. For Indian residents, the programme is open to graduates B.Tech. or M.Sc./M.Tech. graduate from any Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) with a minimum CGPA of 7.5 on a scale of 10. 

3. For residents of other countries, it is open to graduates of Institutes/Universities within QS WUR of 500 (published in 2024) [link: https://www.topuniversities.com/world-university-rankings/2024]. 

4. Candidates must be able to undertake PhD studies at IIT Kharagpur from July 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter with no requirement for a (further) visa to study in India. 

5. Willingness to travel to the UK to undertake 2 years of study based at The University of Manchester if such travel is permitted by UK and India governments. 

6. Holds or expects to obtain a 2:1 class honours undergraduate degree or higher (or international equivalent – contact the Admissions Team for details). 

7. Ideally Preferably holds a master’s-level qualification at merit or distinction (or international equivalent – contact the Admissions Team for details). 

8. Demonstrable excellent communication skills, including in English language, a proficiency in which should be demonstrably indicated by meeting the requirements as indicated our English language requirements page [link: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/international/admissions/language-requirements/], and in particular securing an IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component OR securing a TOEFL iBT score of 90 with no less than 20 in each component equivalent or equivalent. The TOEFL/IELTS exam may be taken after the final selection and award of scholarship, and prior to joining IIT Kharagpur. 

9. For some projects an ATAS certificate may also be required by them. 

10. Demonstrate to fulfil The University of Manchester Faculty of Science and Engineering Postgraduate Researcher person specification: 

* Educational background matches research project. 

* Potential to form effective working relationships with a diverse range of people, including working inclusively and as part of a team. 

* Potential to take the initiative, lead on projects, and be proactive in prioritising a dynamic, agile and diverse workload. 

* Potential to develop understanding of complex problems, evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a given scenario, and apply in-depth knowledge to address them. 

* Potential to develop expertise in new areas of the subject. 

* Evidence of an understanding of the proposed area of research, including knowledge of current challenges and opportunities. 

* An interest in continuous personal and professional development. 

* Potential to communicate ideas and conclusions, verbally and in writing, clearly and effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences. 

* Preliminary knowledge of research techniques/track record of engaging with research. 

* Commitment to principles of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, & Accessibility in teaching, research, or experience. 

Equality, Diversity and inclusion 

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact. We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status. 

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder). 

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