School of Physics & Astronomy

Postgraduate vacancies

Each year the School has a number of EPSRC/DTA funded vacancies, any applications received will automatically be considered for these funding sources

In addition details of funded vacancies are advertised here when available:

Apply online

 

Vacancies

Please read the details of available positions and contact respective academics

PhD positions in Astronomy - how it works

The astronomy group offers PhDs in the areas of extragalactic astronomy, observational and theoretical cosmology, and machine learning for astronomical data. We have 10 academic members of staff offering PhD projects and typically have between 2-3 funded places per year. The funding comes from UKRI STFC. We also encourage applications for International Scholarships.  

A list of all the PhD projects we currently offer can be found on the "Study for a PhD" section on the Astronomy group webpage. Some projects only have one supervisor named, but all students will be appointed two supervisors if they take on the project. 

We run our postgraduate admissions a little differently to the rest of the School. We gather applications until the end of January and then we invite the top candidates to a half-day visit and interview. During the interview day we advertise all the PhD projects we have on offer. We will then offer STFC-funded positions to the best candidates. The candidates then can choose their PhD project from the list we advertise. Therefore our studentships are not tied to a particular project. 

PhD positions in Particle Cosmology/Nottingham Centre of Gravity

The Particle Cosmology group offers PhDs in a range of topics related to the cosmology of the early and late universe. We have 9 academic members of staff, all of whom are also affiliated with Nottingham Centre of Gravity  We typically have between 2-3 funded places per year. The funding comes from UKRI STFC. We also encourage applications for International Scholarships, when they are available. 

A list of all the PhD projects is expected to appear on the Particle Cosmology group webpages some time in November, although these should just be taken as a rough guide.  We encourage you to talk to individual members of staff about their plans for PhD supervision. 

We gather applications until the end of January and then we invite the top candidates to a half-day visit and interview, or carry out interviews online, as appropriate.  We then assign the successful applicants to the supervisor that best fits their interests, with a proposed source of funding.

PhD positions in Condensed Matter Theory (CMT)

In areas relating to CMT we review PhD applications all year round (i.e. there is no deadline). The way to proceed is to make an online application here: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/physics/studywithus/postgraduate/howtoapply.aspx. While the application form asks for a research project, all we need is for you to indicate that CMT is your area of interest (optionally mentioning potential supervisors).

PhD positions at the Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre (SPMIC)

The Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre (SPMIC) at the University of Nottingham, is a leading international centre for the development of medical imaging, particularly MRI. It hosts a number of research-dedicated MRI scanners, including a 7T human scanner and a 0.5T Open MRI scanner, and next year we will take delivery of one of the only 11.7T scanners in the world, which will be run as a national facility. We have a thriving, interdisciplinary postgraduate and postdoctoral community, and highly experienced PhD supervisors.

We are pleased to be able to offer two PhD studentships (UK home fees rate) from October 2025 for 3.5 years. This includes a stipend at standard UKRI rates. It would be expected that successful candidates will have an undergraduate degree in physics or possibly a related physical science such as chemistry, maths or computer science. We aim to support students to attend a limited number of national and international conferences to increase their understanding of their subject and to build networks for future career development.

Possible project titles and further details are available on the SPMIC website.

Bell Burnell Scholarships 

Each year the Institute of Physics offers PhD scholarships to underrepresented  groups, through the Bell Burnell Graduate Scholarship Fund. The school can support one application each year, and as result, we carry out an internal selection process in early December. If you are eligible for the scheme and interested in applying, you should submit your PhD application early, well in advance of the internal deadline. You should make your interest in the Bell Burnell scholarship clear on your application, and communicate this directly to the potential supervisor and/or the person in charge of PhD admission for the group you are interested in joining. 

PhD Studentship in Experimental Condensed Matter

The School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Nottingham welcomes PhD applications in Experimental Condensed Matter Physics.

The studentship is fully-funded (fees and stipend) for eligible UK students. 

Project
The PhD student will join a team of scientists at the University of Nottingham to develop atomically thin materials (2D semiconductors or 2DSEM) in a £6million EPSRC Programme Grant to reduce the soaring energy demands of artificial intelligence. 2DSEM behave in a fundamentally different way from their bulk (3D) counterparts and their unique electronic properties can support entirely new effects, both individually and when combined to form new structures, from new forms of charge and spin order to ferroelectricity at the atomic scale. The project will advance the precise engineering of 2DSEM pushing the limits of what can be created, probed and exploited using a bespoke facility (EPI2SEM) for EPItaxial growth and in-situ analysis of 2DSEM, funded by a £2.9million EPSRC Strategic Equipment Award.

Qualifications
Applicants should have (or expect to obtain by the start date) at least a 2.1 degree in Physics or related subject.

Enquiries
Informal enquiries about this studentship can be made to Prof Amalia Patanè at: amalia.patane@nottingham.ac.uk

Deadlines
There is no deadline for applying. 

We welcome applications as we progress with this research.

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PhD positions in experimental Quantum Optics (Error Proof Bell-State Analyser)

Midlands Ultracold Atoms Research Centre – Muarc Nottingham, UK

Efficient atom-photon interfaces are a central part for quantum computers, fibre networks or miniaturised quantum sensors. This exciting project creates an interface based on a cloud of cold atoms trapped in a micrometre sized intersection in an optical single mode fibre. A fibre cavity can be added to this system and the strong coupling regime reached. We will also expand this concept to two dimensions (photonic waveguide chips), which currently have been very successful for photonic structures, such as interferometers and photonic quantum simulators, but so far have not included atoms. The PhD project will build on our existing experiment, where we are currently trapping a cold cloud of caesium atoms with a temperature of 100 µK in a 30 µm hole.

The project is part of a European collaboration including theoretical, experimental and photonic engineering partners from Vienna, Berlin, Rostock, Odense. The PhD student will benefit from the local research team (experiment and theory) and regular international consortia meetings.

The PhD program at the University of Nottingham offers postgraduate courses (Midlands Physics Alliance Graduate School, mpags) as well as summer schools and workshops. Benefits include a taxfree PhD stipend (currently 14553£ /year), paid tuition fees for EU/UK students and a travel grant.

We welcome applications from highly motivated students with a strong background in quantum physics.

Application: Please contact Dr. Lucia Hackermueller lucia.hackermuller@nottingham.ac.uk and send a CV and a motivation letter.

 

PhD project title: Quantum-enabled Magnetic Induction Tomography for Healthcare and Geophysical Survey

Supervisor: Prof. Mark Fromhold

The project will involve the design and optimisation of a quantum-enabled portable Magnetic Inductance Tomography (MIT) sensor system for biomedical imaging, including cardiac monitoring, and to map ground conductivity with greater resolution, sensitivity, and penetration than classical instruments, thus enhancing geological/geophysical surveys.

In MIT, alternating current is sent through an array of conductor networks that induce eddy currents in the ground. Highly sensitivity magnetometers are used to detect the magnetic field produced by the eddy currents. The recorded data, i.e., measurements of the in-phase and out-of-phase magnetic field, are converted into information about the ground conductivity and magnetic susceptibility and further, via petrophysical relationships, into geological and geotechnical parameters.

The project will involve the design and integration of four main components and sub-systems:

  • A new, recently patented, electromagnetic excitation coil geometry uses multiple complementary wire geometries to extract greater spatial information than existing excitation coils.
  • Highly-sensitive optically pumped magnetometers for detection of the eddy currents.
  • Optimised layout (also patented) of the sensors, chosen to facilitate the matrix inversion required to reconstruct the conductivity profiles (biomedical or underground) from the magnetic field measurements.
  • Software/modelling for converting the measured magnetic field into useful medical and geological imaging information.

The student(s) may choose to consider all four of these topics, and transfer techniques between them, or specialise in one of them as the project proceeds. Depending on the interest of the student, the project may focus on fundamental topics or involve collaboration with industry and British Geological Survey, Keyworth, Nottingham

PhD project title: Computer simulation to optimise the development and deployment of quantum sensors in healthcare and geophysical survey

Supervised by Prof. Mark Fromhold

Computer modelling and optimisation is crucial for the development and deployment of new high-technology devices, prototypes and products. It is particularly important for accelerating the production and early adoption of quantum sensors for two reasons. Firstly, making the sensors will require the miniaturisation, integration, and power reduction of many supply-chain components, including atom sources and traps, lasers and optical devices, and ultra-high vacuum systems. Secondly, in order to build markets for the sensors, the advantages that they offer, and the best way to use them, need to be determined and quantified.

This project will involve the development of analytical methods and computer simulation software, including inverse and optimisation techniques, Green function analysis of electromagnetic fields, and Multiphysics modelling using COMSOL packages, to overcome four challenges in the development of real-world quantum technologies:

  • The development of miniature, integrated, low-power quantum sensor components suitable for scalable manufacture
  • Using inverse methods to understand how best to deploy quantum sensors of gravity for underground mapping
  • Quantifying the benefits of using thermal atom sensors in Magnetoencephalography (MEG) systems and designing components for such systems
  • Designing state-of-the-art magnetic shielding and excitation systems for applications in healthcare and geophysical survey (with the Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre and the University of Birmingham)

The student(s) may choose to consider all four of these topics, and transfer techniques between them, or specialise in one of them as the project proceeds. Depending on the interest of the student, the project may focus on fundamental topics or involve collaboration with industry.

PhD project title: Modelling Next-generation Magneto-Optical Traps for Quantum Technologies

Supervisor: Prof. Mark Fromhold

Magneto-optical traps (MOTs) are fridges that use laser light and magnetic fields to cool atoms to within a millionth of a degree of absolute zero. They are a core component of cold-atom quantum technologies including clocks, field and force sensors. There is great current interest in miniaturising and integrating the components of these systems and in making them more suitable for scalable manufacture – for example by Additive Manufacturing (3D printing).

The project will involve the development of realistic MOT simulation software, based on both analytical and numerical methods, which includes the effects of the laser beams, optical elements such as diffraction gratings for grating MOTs, magnetic fields and the systems that generate and shield them, and the dynamics of atoms being trapped.

This modelling capability will be used to optimise the performance of MOTs for a range of quantum technology applications. Specifically, it will involve:

  • Making detailed calculations of the magnetic field profile and laser force for given trapping system and beam geometries and using a stochastic differential equation to simulate the motion of atoms within the MOT above the Doppler temperature. The model will include key physical details including multi-level atoms, diffusive effects, laser forces and Stark forces, loading of atoms from the edges of the target volume and losses due to collisions with the background gas. The model will also incorporate a method for removing trapped atoms from the simulation, so maximising computational power.
  • The model will need to be fully flexible so that it can be tailored for different atomic species and unusual laser/trapping geometries, for example those use in the Southampton micro and field-free “Magic” MOTs. It will be used to design next-generation cold-atom sources optimised for specific quantum sensing and timing applications.

Depending on the interest of the student(s), the project may focus on fundamental topics or involve collaboration with industry.

PhD project area: Atomic magnetometer and field vector camera

Supervisor: Dr Thomas Fernholz, Associate Professor
thomas.fernholz@nottingham.ac.uk

The Cold Atoms group at the University of Nottingham is part of the Quantum Technology Hub for Sensors and Metrology [1, 2]. We contribute to the development of deployable practical devices and particularly focus on atom chip technology.

One of our current aims is the realization of an atomic magnetometer and field vector camera that is capable of obtaining full vector information of a magnetic field distribution averaged over a thin volume, thus obtaining an image. With our first experiment in this direction, we are already able to measure tiny magnetic fields of only 100 Femtotesla [3]. This is sufficient to detect fields from the human heart-beat.

Examples of the research and development questions that need addressing include:

  • What is the interplay between sensitivity, spatial resolution, and temporal bandwidth?
  • What is the quantum limit for the signal to noise ratio?
  • What are the ideal materials for best performance?
  • Can we build compact devices?
  • Can we image bio-magnetic signals from the heart and the brain?

[1] K. Bongs et al., “The UK National Quantum Technologies Hub in sensors and metrology (Keynote Paper)”, Proc. SPIE 9900, Quantum Optics, 990009 (June 9, 2016); doi:10.1117/12.2232143

[2] Kai Bongs, “UK quantum hub aims to translate research to applications”, video DOI:10.1117/2.3201612.01

[3] T. Pyragius, H. Marin Florez, T. Fernholz, “A Voigt effect based 3D vector magnetometer”, arXiv:1810.08999 (2018).

PhD project area: Quantum sensing with matter wave interferometers

Supervisor: Dr Thomas Fernholz, Associate Professor  thomas.fernholz@nottingham.ac.uk

The Cold Atoms Group at the University of Nottingham is part of the Quantum Technology Hub for Sensors and Metrology [1, 2]. We contribute to the development of deployable practical devices and particularly focus on atom chip technology. One of our aims is the realization of an atomic rotation sensor that measures rotation using the Sagnac effect [3]. In contrast to recent successful approaches that achieve impressive sensitivities using free-falling atoms [4], we confine atoms to magnetic guides and traps. This holds promise to miniaturize such interferometers, because it overcomes the need for large apparatus size imposed by the time atoms spend in free-fall.

Following our recent proposal [5, 6], we investigate methods to operate a Sagnac interferometer effectively like an atomic clock that uses trapped thermal atoms.

Examples of the research and development questions that need addressing include atom chip design, incorporating detailed analysis of atom trapping and guiding methods, optimal atomic state preparation and detection, methods to increase of interferometer area for better sensitivity and faster atom transport for higher sensor bandwidth, development of portable laser, electronics, and vacuum technology, studies on coherence properties and cross-sensitivities, and hybrid schemes involving classical sensors. Reaching the highest interferometer performance will require excellent control over a range of technical noise sources to ultimately tackling the limits imposed by quantum noise of interfering atoms and probe light. Relevant to this regime is our parallel interest in quantum light-matter interaction, which allows for the suppression of quantum noise beyond its standard limit [7].

The facilities available for this research area include two experimental ultra-cold atom setups with a wide range of supporting laboratory equipment. Access to clean-room and micro-fabrication facilities enables in-house development of atom chips. A high-performance computing cluster is available for computing intensive modelling and simulation tasks.

[1] K. Bongs et al., “The UK National Quantum Technologies Hub in sensors and metrology (Keynote Paper)”, Proc. SPIE 9900, Quantum Optics, 990009 (June 9, 2016); doi:10.1117/12.2232143

[2] Kai Bongs, “UK quantum hub aims to translate research to applications”, video DOI:10.1117/2.3201612.01

[3] B. Barrett et al, “The Sagnac effect: 20 years of development in matter-wave interferometry”, C. R. Physique 15, 875 (2014).

[4] I. Dutta et al. “Continuous Cold-Atom Inertial Sensor with 1 nrad/sec Rotation Stability”, Phys. Rev. Lett. 116, 183003 (2016).

[5] T. Fernholz et al., “Dynamically controlled toroidal and ring-shaped magnetic traps”, Phys. Rev. A 75, 063406 (2007).

[6] R. Stevenson et al., “Sagnac interferometry with a single atomic clock”, Phys. Rev. Lett. 115, 163001 (2015).

[7] T. Fernholz et al., “Spin Squeezing of Atomic Ensembles via Nuclear-Electronic Spin Entanglement”, Phys. Rev. Lett. 101, 073601 

Next-generation cancer diagnosis and treatment using integrated snake-like robot with optical imaging

Supervisors:

Prof Ioan Notingher (School of Physics and Astronomy)

Dr George Gordon and Dr Abdelkhalick Mohammad (Faculty of Engineering)

Funding: fully-funded (stipend and PhD fees)

Duration: 3.5 years

Subject Area: Biophotonics/Optics/Engineering

The cancer of the bile ducts affects around 3000 people in the UK each year and its incidence and mortality are increasing. We are seeking a Ph.D. student to join our multidisciplinary team developing a radical solution for better detection and treatment that uses ultra-thin snake-like robots and advanced optical imaging techniques.  We aim to combine Raman spectroscopy, a powerful label-free analytical technique that measures the molecular composition of tissue by using light to excite molecular vibrations, with imaging techniques in optical fibres, hair-thin pieces of glass, for 3D mapping of cancer tissue. Using lasers in the visible range allow the Raman measurements to be integrated with cutting edge fibre-optics and micro-imaging modalities, such that molecular specific information can be obtained from microscopic biological samples and maps of cancer can be made. The probe will enable precise navigation into the body, delivering high-resolution imaging and molecular Raman sensing to improve diagnosis of cancer and enable localised treatment.

What we offer:

  • The chance to work in a world-class multi-disciplinary team consisting of physicists, engineers and clinicians: an excellent opportunity for inter-disciplinary training.
  • 3.5 years funding includes stipend, tuition fees for UK students
  • A supportive environment as signatories of the Researcher Development Concordat (www.vitae.ac.uk/policy/concordat)
  • The opportunity to produce high-quality publications
  • Funding for research consumables, Travel to international conferences.

What you should have:

  • A 1st degree in physics or engineering.
  • An interest in optics, some ability in computer programming
  • A desire to learn new skills in complementary disciplines.

You will work jointly between the labs of Prof. Notingher (expertise in Raman spectroscopy), Dr. Gordon (Optical Fibre Imaging) and Dr Mohammad (snake-like medical robots).

For further information: please contact Ioan Notingher (ioan.notingher@nottingham.ac.uk ).

Application: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/how-to-apply/apply-online.aspx

Spin-Polarised Scanning Probe Microscopy of Unconventional Magnets

Dr. Brian Kiraly, Brian.Kiraly@nottingham.ac.uk

This project will develop and apply spin-polarised scanning probe microscopy to image, understand, and control magnetic order at the atomic scale in unconventional magnetic materials. Using low-temperature scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), the work will detect and map complex magnetic textures in emerging material classes, including two-dimensional magnets, altermagnets, and new classes of compensated spin-split systems. These materials exhibit magnetic order without conventional ferromagnetism, offering new routes to functional behaviour rooted in crystal symmetry, topology, and electronic structure rather than net magnetisation.

A core scientific aim is to resolve and manipulate topological magnetic textures such as vortices, merons, and domain walls at the level of individual atomic sites. Topological defects are central to modern condensed-matter physics, underpinning phenomena ranging from superconductivity to superfluidity, yet they are rarely accessible as individual objects in real materials. By combining spin-polarised STM with controlled current injection, local electric fields, and temperature modulation, this project will move beyond passive imaging to actively create, annihilate, and reconfigure magnetic textures on demand. This capability will establish direct causal links between atomic-scale structure, symmetry breaking, and emergent magnetic topology.

The project will place particular emphasis on newly discovered altermagnetic materials, which break time-reversal symmetry while remaining magnetically compensated. These systems have generated strong international interest due to their compatibility with superconductors and topological phases, and their potential for highly scalable, low-energy spintronic devices. While recent studies have demonstrated nanoscale imaging of altermagnetic vortices and domains, the microscopic mechanisms governing their stability, dynamics, and interaction with defects remain largely unexplored. Atomic-scale scanning probe measurements will directly address this gap, providing insight into the fundamental limits of altermagnetic order and its controllability.

This studentship will strengthen existing links between experimental nanoscience, magnetism, and spintronics within the School, building on Nottingham’s internationally recognised expertise in scanning probe microscopy and magnetic materials. The project will train the student in advanced experimental techniques, data analysis, and interdisciplinary problem solving at the interface of physics, materials science, and device-relevant functionality. Outcomes will include high-impact publications, conference dissemination, and the development of transferable skills aligned with both academic and industrial research environments.

The work aligns strongly with EPSRC strategic priorities, particularly Advanced Materials, Quantum and Emergent Phenomena, and Digital Futures. It addresses the discovery and control of novel material functionalities, supports high-risk and high-reward fundamental research, and contributes to the long-term challenge of reducing energy consumption in information technologies. At an institutional level, the project supports the University of Nottingham’s strategic focus on transformative technologies, advanced materials, and global research leadership, reinforcing the School’s role as a centre for atomic-scale science and next-generation magnetic technologies.

By integrating local probe measurements with complementary theory and materials growth efforts, the project will also strengthen critical links throughout the School of Physics and Astronomy, while delivering sustained research excellence and creating potential for future external funding opportunities.

School of Physics and Astronomy

The University of Nottingham
University Park
Nottingham NG7 2RD

For all enquiries please visit:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/enquiry