Quantum Technology for Fundamental Physics: the MAGIS and AION experiments, combined with future satellite-based experiments

Description

The MAGIS and AION collaborations are developing ultra-sensitive atom interferometers that will be used to search for ultra-light dark matter and detect gravitational waves. These detectors will be built and installed at Fermilab (US) and in the UK. Both collaborations are working towards a 100‑metre baseline detector as a step towards a 1 km version with sufficient sensitivity to detect gravitational waves in the mid-band from 0.1 Hz - 10 Hz - between the Advanced LIGO and LISA experiments. The AION program was funded in 2021 via the STFC's Quantum Technology for Fundamental Physics call and builds upon strong links between the two collaborations.

This studentship will focus on developing the readout of the detection system for AION and MAGIS. In addition, it will develop advanced fluorescence imaging techniques that allow single-shot imaging of ultracold atoms. The system will employ an in-vacuum piezo-driven retro reflection platform combined with low-noise cameras and a custom readout chain. This will be deployed at Fermilab in 2023 and is also being developed for AION.

The work will take place in a sandwich format, with a secondment to the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and frequent visits to Fermilab to ensure full integration of the student into the relevant engineering teams and non-academic partners. In addition, it will leverage the experience of RAL Space to determine the feasibility for future space flight missions using atom interferometry.

Throughout the project you will have access to the Universities’ comprehensive postgraduate training in particle physics, as well as to targeted training in data science provided by the University of Liverpool with the Centre for Doctoral Training LIV.INNO. You will also be given the opportunity to carry out an industry placement of at least six months at RAL-Space to broaden your wider research and career skills.

This project will be carried out over 48 months. You will spend years 1 and 4 in the UK, and be based at a combination RAL-Space, Fermilab and Liverpool during years 2 and 3. Whilst in the UK, a standard RKUK PhD stipend will be paid, during the time at Fermilab, the usual Fermilab doctoral student allowance will be paid. A mandatory 6-months industry placement forms part of the project.

https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/how-to-apply/.

Please ensure you include the project title in your online application and quote reference PPPR041.

Availability

Open to UK applicants

Funding information

Funded studentship

The studentship will cover the UK fees; a tax-free maintenance allowance will be paid during the first and final year, when the student is based in the UK. A standard CERN PhD scholarship will be paid during the time at CERN.

Supervisors