PhD position 'Advanced Spectroscopy Cells for Quantum Sensing'

Within the IQST Graduate School framework, the hot atomic vapor spectroscopy group at the 5th Institute of Physics is currently seeking a PhD student. This PhD program is in close collaboration with Q.ANT GmbH in Stuttgart, a deep-tech company that develops photonic computing and photonic sensing products.

The goal of this project is the development of highly integrated vapor cells with 3D optical access for more advanced spectroscopy schemes. These vapor cells will be the core component in atomic gyroscope and magnetometer products being developed at Q.ANT.

For fabricating such versatile cells, we will rely on laser-assisted glass etching, laser welding as well as laser-written waveguide structures and polarization optics. This part of the project will be implemented together with the laser-based material processing experts at the Institut für Strahlwerkzeuge (IFSW) at the University of Stuttgart.  

The fabricated gas-filled cells will then be investigated in the 5th Institute of Physics by means of various spectroscopy schemes and also at Q.ANT in their gyroscope/magnetometer labs. 

With this thesis, the PhD student will acquire broad knowledge on state-of-the-art laser technology, on fundamental aspects of atomic spectroscopy and quantum physics, and will finally learn how to develop a commercial quantum sensor.  

Your role:

• Basic research in the theory and experiments with hot atomic vapors.
• Develop advanced 3D vapor cell specifications to be manufactured at IFSW.
• Investigate and characterize the properties of the 3D vapor cells using various laser spectroscopy methods.
• Validation of the 3D vapor cells in quantum sensor applications at Q.ANT
  (atomic gyroscopes and magnetometers).

Your background and skills:

• MSc degree in physics.
• Hands-on experience with atomic physics.
• Hands-on lab-experience with laser spectroscopy.
• Interest in laser-based glass manufacturing techniques.
• Fluent in English.

Other:

• The PhD candidate will be enrolled at and employed by the University of Stuttgart and will be supervised by Dr. Robert Löw of the 5th Institute of Physics.
• The PhD candidate will be remunerated according to the German TV-L 13 with 75% for a period of 4 years.
• Over the course of the PhD tenure, the PhD candidate will spend a total of 6 months at the industrial partner Q.ANT GmbH as a member of the Native Sensing business unit.
• The PhD tenure can start immediately.

How to apply

Send your full application in one pdf with a short statement of research interests, CV, certificates, or transcript of records.

Contact

• Dr. Robert Löw
• Dr. Florian Kienle