Qualification Type: | PhD |
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Location: | Durham |
Funding for: | UK Students |
Funding amount: | £19,237 |
Hours: | Full Time |
Placed On: | 16th July 2024 |
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Closes: | 3rd August 2024 |
Reference: | QLM_KJW1 |
Number of awards
1
Start date and duration October 2024 3.5 years (January 2025 start possible)
Award
100% tuition fees paid and annual living expenses of £19,237
Deadline 3th August 2024
Overview
The terahertz (THz) frequency band lies between the infrared and microwave regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Because THz radiation is non-ionising and passes through materials such as paper, cloth, and plastics, it finds applications including security screening, biomedical imaging, and production-line monitoring. The THz region has traditionally been a difficult frequency range to work in because it falls between ranges of electronic and photonic devices - This is known as the ‘terahertz gap’ and although significant progress has been made to close this gap, applications are still limited by the low power output of THz sources and the low speed and sensitivity of THz detectors. In Durham, we have recently developed quantum sensors for terahertz imaging that use Rydberg atoms to convert terahertz radiation to optical fluorescence. This has allowed unprecedented speed and sensitivity in image acquisition. This experimental Ph.D. project will push our technology to the next level by using laser pulse sequences to allow very short exposure images. This will allow very fast phenomena, such as shockwaves, to be studied in optically opaque media. The scholarship is funded by industry partner AWE and is linked to work in the UK National Quantum Technology Hubs.
The department is committed to promoting diversity, and we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups.
Sponsor AWE
Name of supervisor(s) Professor Kevin Weatherill
Eligibility Criteria
You must have or expect a First Class honours Bachelor's degree, or at least a 2:1 Integrated Master’s degree or a Master's degree in an appropriate subject, from a recognised university (or equivalent).
Applications open to Home fee candidates.
How to apply
You must apply through the University’s applicant portal
You will need to:
Contact
For informal enquiries contact k.j.weatherill@durham.ac.uk
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