PhD Studentship: Entanglement generation with quantum dots
Application deadline: February 15th, 2026
Starting date: From October 1st, 2026
Note: We especially encourage applications from women and other underrepresented groups in Physics and Engineering.
Motivation: Entangled photons play a critical role in next-generation quantum technologies ranging from distributed quantum computing systems to device-independent quantum key distribution. However, generating photonic entanglement in an efficient, on-demand manner is extremely difficult. Deterministic sources of single-photons such as semiconductor quantum dots offer a promising pathway towards generating ultrabright entanglement. However, state-of-the-art demonstrations have relied on multiplexing many photons from a single quantum dot, significantly limiting their use in scalable quantum technologies for computing and communication.
Project Description: This is a four-year PhD position aligned with the ERC grant QUEST (Quantum Photonics in Space and Time), hosted in the Beyond Binary Quantum Information (BBQ) Lab at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh. The PhD project will develop methods for the coherent control and manipulation of multiple quantum dots using spatially structured light, and harness their potential as efficient sources of high-quality single photons. The project will build significantly on our work on quantum information processing with spatially structured quantum light to develop a new platform for ultrabright entanglement generation.
During this project, you will develop significant expertise in theoretical and experimental quantum information science, with specific skills in programming, experimental quantum photonics, and condensed matter physics. Throughout the project, you will have the opportunity to develop your communication skills and build your network through international/UK collaborative projects, publication of peer-reviewed papers, and presentations at UK/EU meetings and workshops. This position comes with the potential to travel and present your work at leading international conferences in the field.
About Us: The Beyond Binary Quantum Information (BBQ) Lab is led by Prof. Mehul Malik and consists of a dynamic team of researchers working at the forefront of the quantum technology revolution. You will conduct your research in the extensive photonics laboratory facilities of the BBQ Lab, which is funded by generous grants from the European Research Council (ERC), the UK Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC), and the Royal Academy of Engineering. The BBQ Lab has significant links to leadings group in the EU/North America, and is a member of two UK National Quantum Technology Hubs (IQN/Integrated Quantum Networks and QuSIT/Quantum Sensing, Imaging, and Timing). In addition, we have an ongoing partnership with the NASA Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Caltech that includes access to state-of-the-art superconducting detector technology being developed at JPL. For more details on our research, please have a look at our recent publications.
Requirements: The ideal candidate should have a good understanding of quantum physics and photonics, as well as enthusiasm for experimental work. This research project would ideally suit a candidate with a background in one of the following disciplines: Physics, Optics, Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, although we are open to any enthusiastic applicant with a science-related background. A top-class degree/high grades in your field of study are essential.
Application Details: Applications from women and other underrepresented groups in Physics are especially encouraged. There is some flexibility in starting dates, but the PhD position will ideally start on January 1st, 2027. Formal applications must be made through the Heriot-Watt online application system. In addition, please arrange for two academic references to be sent to Prof. Malik at m.malik@hw.ac.uk. The closing date for this position is Feb 15th, 2026.
Questions: Informal enquiries may be made to Dr. Suraj Goel at s.goel(at)hw.ac.uk.
Funding Notes: The position is open to all nationalities. This position is supported by a European Research Council (ERC) grant and includes funding to cover UK Visa costs, including the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge. The position includes an annual tax-free stipend of approximately £21,383 (predicted UKRI level 2025/26) that is adjusted yearly for inflation. In addition, you will be provided with a research-grade laptop and have access to £3000 of departmental funds for travel to conferences and workshops. Significant additional funds for attending national and international conferences are available from BBQLab.
Apply here: Heriot-Watt online application system (Under “Research Project Information,” please indicate which of the two PhD studentships you are applying to. If you are interested in both, please indicate your preference.)
BBQ Lab 