Quantum Technology: the MAGIS and AION experiments, combined with future satellite-based experiment

The successful candidate will work on designing advanced imaging systems for atom interferometry.
Institution: University of Liverpool 

This project will contribute to cutting-edge quantum technology research in the quest to detect ultralight dark matter and gravitational waves. Working within the MAGIS and AION collaborations, the project focuses on developing atom interferometers for fundamental physics such as ‘wave-like’ dark matter in the ultralight mass regime. 

The MAGIS and AION collaborations are next-generation atom interferometry experiments based on creating macroscopic superpositions of atoms using the ultranarrow optical clock transition of strontium. These experiments will utilise 100 m baselines, increasing on the size of previous atom interferometers by an order of magnitude, to generate atoms in spatial superpositions of several metres – opening up unprecedented precision. This will enable a broad new physics programme, including the search for mid-band gravitational waves, ultralight dark matter searches, and tests of fundamental quantum physics. 

The student will work on designing advanced imaging systems for atom interferometry. The project also includes a technical placement at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL), providing a hands-on role within one of the UK’s premier facilities for quantum and space research. With the potential to develop quantum sensing systems for space missions, this project could pave the way for applications of quantum technology in orbit. 

Student: Chetan Parmar