Project Overview
About the Position
PhD studentship at the University of Manchester to build heterogeneous quantum-dot–atom repeaters for quantum networks, combining III-V semiconductor quantum-dot photon sources with warm rubidium atomic vapour for frequency conversion and photon storage. Supervised by Dr Joanna Zajac. Stipend £21,805 per year (2026/27 UKRI rate). Deadline: 1 December 2026.
| Opportunity | PhD in Quantum-Dot–Atom Repeaters at the University of Manchester |
| Host | University of Manchester |
| Location | Manchester, United Kingdom |
| Study Level | PhD |
| Funding | Partially Funded, stipend provided |
| Stipend | GBP 21,805 per year (2026/27 UKRI rate, tax-free) |
| Application Deadline | 1 December 2026 |
| Apply | Official application page ↗ |
Tuition Coverage to Check
The advertised package covers Home-rate tuition. It should not be treated as full international-fee funding: confirm your fee status and any overseas-fee difference with the university before accepting.
About the Research
Long-distance quantum communication faces a major technical problem: photons are gradually lost as they travel through optical fibre. Quantum repeaters are being developed as a possible way of extending quantum communication over much greater distances. This Manchester project will investigate a hybrid system combining III-V semiconductor quantum-dot photon sources and warm rubidium atomic vapour. The goal is to develop interfaces capable of frequency conversion and subsequent storage of photons in rubidium vapour.
Research Activities
The successful student is expected to work across areas including: quantum-dot photon sources; rubidium atomic vapour; frequency conversion; photon storage; quantum optics; semiconductor physics; atomic physics; cryogenic optical measurements; optical system design; electromagnetically induced transparency; four-wave mixing; numerical modelling; and quantum networking. The student will work with collaborators in the UK and internationally. Part of the research is connected to Manchester work on testing quantum telecommunications over metropolitan communication links.
Funding
The studentship is funded for 3.5 years. The successful student receives £21,805 per year tax-free stipend at the 2026/27 UKRI rate, tuition-fee coverage, and annual stipend increases where UKRI rates rise. The current advertisement specifies that the funding is available to candidates eligible for Home tuition-fee status. This means international applicants who are classified as Overseas-fee students should not assume that full international tuition fees will be covered.
Eligibility and Requirements
Applicants should normally have or expect to receive: at least a UK 2:1 honours degree; a relevant master's degree; or an international equivalent, in a suitable science or engineering discipline. Relevant backgrounds may include: physics; quantum technology; electrical/electronic engineering; photonics; optical engineering; materials science; or closely related areas.
Supervisor
Dr Joanna Zajac is a Lecturer in Quantum Technology in Manchester's Photon Physics Group. Her official Manchester profile lists research interests including: III-V quantum dots; neutral atoms; quantum repeaters; telecom devices; and quantum sensing. Her university profile also confirms that she is currently accepting PhD students.
Contact
Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be raised through the contact channel given on the official announcement page (see the Official Link section above). Always quote the position reference in your message so the admissions or HR team can route your enquiry quickly.
Official Link
Full announcement and application portal: https://research.manchester.ac.uk/en/persons/joanna-zajac/
Source: research.manchester.ac.uk - the details in this listing were recorded from this official page.
Important Notes
- Application deadline: 1 December 2026 - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
- Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
- Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.
How to Apply
Submit your application through the official portal before the deadline: 1 December 2026. Read the eligibility requirements carefully and prepare all requested documents — early applications are strongly recommended for competitive awards.
Open the official application page ↗
Application guides
Frequently asked questions
Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.
What is the deadline for PhD in Quantum-Dot–Atom Repeaters at the University of Manchester?
The application deadline is 1 December 2026. Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off (Europe/London time) and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source names Europe/London but gives no clock time.
How is PhD in Quantum-Dot–Atom Repeaters at the University of Manchester funded?
This is a partially funded award: funding is listed as partial, so it covers only part of the cost rather than the whole programme. What is covered (fees, living costs or both) is not set out in the source — check the source for what it covers and price the remainder before you apply. GBP 21,805 per year (2026/27 UKRI rate, tax-free).
Who is eligible to apply for PhD in Quantum-Dot–Atom Repeaters at the University of Manchester?
This listing is open to UK applicants only. If you are applying from outside the UK, this one will not accept your application — filter United Kingdom listings by residency before you spend time on it. Applications are assessed by University of Manchester.
How do I apply for PhD in Quantum-Dot–Atom Repeaters at the University of Manchester?
Applications for PhD in Quantum-Dot–Atom Repeaters at the University of Manchester are submitted directly to University of Manchester through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.
Is an English proficiency test required for PhD in Quantum-Dot–Atom Repeaters at the University of Manchester?
Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for United Kingdom are published by the provider.
What study level does PhD in Quantum-Dot–Atom Repeaters at the University of Manchester offer?
This listing is offered at PhD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.