PhD Translational Quantum Technology AQ

Program Overview

This PhD program in Translational Quantum Technology prepares students to apply engineering and physics skills to real-world applications. It offers a "lab-to-market" experience, aligning with the National Quantum Technology Hub and leading industry partners. Students develop research and technological skills, and knowledge in quantum technology, preparing them for careers in the emerging quantum technology sector.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This PhD program in Translational Quantum Technology is designed for students who want to apply their engineering or physics skills to real-world applications. It offers a unique "lab-to-market" experience within the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme. The program is aligned with the UK National Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors and Metrology, a collaborative effort led by the University of Birmingham.

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Prepare students for the challenges of translating quantum sensors and metrology devices into real-world applications.
• Provide students with a deep understanding of the underlying science and technology, the needs of end-user applicants, and the societal impact of these quantum technology devices.
• Equip students with the skills to seamlessly transition between academia and industry and translate scientific outcomes into technology.
• Create a networked cohort of students with practical experience in academia and industry.
• Develop students' research and technological skills, and their knowledge of research methods applicable to quantum technology-related research.
• Ensure students are aware of state-of-the-art developments in quantum technology in specific technical and operational topic areas.
• Allow students to develop the understanding necessary to identify new and emerging research needs in the emerging quantum technology industry.
• Enable students to develop the knowledge and skills required to independently undertake a significant research project of relevance to the quantum technology industry, including users of quantum technology.

Outline:

The program is structured as follows:

• Year One - Master of Research (MRes):
• 70 credits of classroom-taught modules.
• A research project worth 110 credits, consisting of team and individual elements.
• The team element of the research project teaches technical, team working, project management, communication, and presentation skills with an emphasis on responsible research and innovation.
• The individual element of the research project focuses on problems relevant to industry and will be carried out in close collaboration with industry partners.
This will be assessed by a substantial thesis.
• Years Two-Four – PhD:
• A three-year long research project at one of the Hub’s partner universities.

Careers:

The program aims to prepare students for careers in the emerging quantum technology industry. Industry secondments to the program's partners will foster career prospects.

Other:

• The UK is leading globally in the field of quantum technology, making this an opportunity to translate quantum science into real-world impact relevant to the economy and society.
• The program provides a unique "lab-to-market" experience within the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme.
• The program is a unique opportunity to acquire translational skills, including specific skills of relevance to the emerging quantum technology industry.
• The UK National Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors is actively engaged with a growing number of industry partners, currently standing at 70 companies from various sectors of the economy.
• The Birmingham led UK National Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors and Metrology is a cross-disciplinary centre, involving staff from the Schools of Physics, Civil, Electrical and Materials Engineering, as well as staff from a number of other Schools across the University.
• The Hub’s research activities include research in the development of sensors for gravity, magnetic fields, rotation, electromagnetic fields, and time.
It also researches their applications in a diverse range of sectors including aviation, communication, construction, defense, energy, finance, healthcare, oil and mineral exploration, transport, and space.

Annual Tuition Fees 2024/25 academic year £4,786 UK students, full-time £27,360 International students, full-time