Quantum energetics (theory) – PhD in Physics (Royal Society and University of Exeter funded) Ref: 5537

Supervisors

Primary Supervisor: Dr Charles Downing

Secondary Supervisor: Prof Misha Portnoi

The University’s Department of Physics invites applications for a PhD studentship funded by the Royal Society and the University of Exeter to commence on 1^st October 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.  For eligible students the studentship will cover Home tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend of the standard amount for 4 years full-time, or pro rata for part-time study.  Students will be based in the Physics Building at the Streatham Campus in Exeter.

Quantum energetics (theory)

This PhD position is concerned with the research fields of theoretical quantum optics, quantum technologies and quantum thermodynamics. The overarching aim of this theoretical physics PhD research is to better understand the fundamental physical laws which govern how energy and information flow in the quantum world, both as an intrinsic scientific curiosity and in order to be able to propose new designs for quantum devices (quantum batteries, quantum engines and so on). Therefore, the results from this project should play a role in the ongoing quantum revolution [1, 2, 3].  

This Exeter research group has recently been interested in proposing novel designs for quantum batteries, which are quantum systems which can store energy by exploiting quantum phenomena (for example, by exploiting entanglement) in order to improve the performance of the device. There are still many questions surrounding the optimal thermodynamic design of such quantum batteries which we will address in this PhD project [3]. 

We will also consider the so-called Mpemba effect, a counterintuitive phenomenon in which a system (for example water) that is initially hot can freeze faster than the water which begins cold. We will explore how the quantum Mpemba effect can arise in open quantum systems, find out the mechanisms which can generate it, and propose quantum devices which can exploit the physics uncovered [4]. 

A variety of theoretical tools (from open quantum systems to quantum many body theory) as well as computational approaches (e.g. QuTip in Python, QuantumOptics.jl in Julia) will be used throughout the project. 

[1] PRX Quantum 3, 020101 (2022). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/PRXQuantum.3.020101

[2] J. Phys. Energy 5 041001 (2024). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1088/2515-7655/acfbb8

[3] Rev. Mod. Phys. 96, 031001 (2024). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/RevModPhys.96.031001

[4] https://arxiv.org/abs/2502.08087

This funded PhD scholarship is suitable for students with a background in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering or Natural Science. 

For eligible students the studentship will cover Home tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend for 4 years full-time, or pro rata for part-time study.  Students will be based in the Physics Building at the Streatham Campus in Exeter.

The conditions for eligibility of Home fees status are complex and you will need to seek advice if you have moved to or from the UK (or the Republic of Ireland) within the past 3 years or have applied for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.  

The PhD should start on 1^st October 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Full details will be confirmed at the offer stage. 

Entry requirements

Applicants for this studentship must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree (or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK) in an appropriate area of Physics, Mathematics, Engineering or Natural Science. 

If English is not your first language you will need to meet the English language requirements and provide proof of proficiency. Click here for more information.

How to apply

Apply now

To apply, please click the ‘Apply Now’ button above. In the application process you will be asked to upload several documents

•             CV

•             Letter of application (outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to study theoretical physics).

•             Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained (this should be an interim transcript if you are still studying)

•             At least one reference from a referee familiar with your academic work. If your referee/s prefer, they can email the reference direct to PGRApplicants@exeter.ac.uk quoting the studentship reference number.

•             If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your proficiency in English.

The closing date for applications is midnight on May 7th 2025.  Interviews will be held virtually date TBC

All application documents must be submitted in English. Certified translated copies of academic qualifications must also be provided.

Please quote reference 5537 on your application and in any correspondence about this studentship.

Summary