Superfluid physics

Turbulence remains one of the most persistent unsolved problems in physics. Despite significant advances, understanding and predicting the chaotic behaviour of turbulent flows is still a challenge due to their complex and unpredictable nature. This project aims to improve our understanding of (quantum) turbulence, and its quantum to classical crossover, by studying quantized vortex dynamics in superfluid helium.

This PhD project will follow a two-pronged approach: First, through the development of an interferometric scattering ‘vortex microscope’, providing real-time and non-destructive imaging of quantum vortex dynamics. Second, by using laser-based techniques for the control and measurement of superflow recently developed in our laboratory [1], you will develop nanoscale integrated photonic sensors to detect superfluid helium physics with unprecedented spatial and temporal resolution.

You will have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of topics, from finite element modelling, design, clean-room fabrication, characterisation, laboratory-based precision measurement and computer simulation (with a degree of emphasis that is up to the candidate). You will learn valuable skills in integrated silicon photonics and cryogenics.

Knowledge and experience in the fields of optics/photonics, cryogenics and vacuum systems, signal processing, RF electronics and scientific programming (e.g. MATLAB, Python, C++ or similar) for data analysis would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

The Queensland Quantum Optics Lab undertakes research in quantum physics and technology, exploiting micro- and nano-scale optical devices. Our mission is to test fundamental physics and develop applications in metrology, communication, and biomedical imaging. Much of our research is based on optical architectures integrated on silicon chips and is compatible with present-day fibre optical systems.

Our research fellows and PhD students work closely together. Our team members come from many technical and personal backgrounds, allowing for plenty of cross-pollination of ideas.

We are affiliated with the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQUS) and the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Quantum Biotechnology (QBIC).

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

You must contact the principal supervisor for this project to discuss your interest. You should only complete the online application after you have reached agreement on supervision.

Always make sure you are approaching your potential supervisor in a professional way. We have provided some guidelines for you on how to contact a supervisor.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history

A working knowledge of optics/photonics, cryogenics and vacuum systems, signal processing, RF electronics and scientific programming (e.g. MATLAB, Python, C++ or similar) for data analysis would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of physics and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of basic physics, optics/photonics and basic data analysis is highly desirable.

To be considered for this scholarship, please email the following documents to Dr Christopher Baker (c.baker3@uq.edu.au):

• Cover letter
• CV
• Academic transcript/s
• Evidence for meeting UQ's English language proficiency requirements eg TOEFL, IELTS

Please note the following: Submitting the above documents does not constitute a full application for admission into The University of Queensland's PhD program. If you are selected as the preferred applicant, you will then be invited to submit a full application for admission. You can familiarise yourself with the documents required for this process on the UQ Study website.