The Quantum Dynamics of Control (QDC) group led by Prof. Aurelia Chenu at the University of Luxembourg has an opening for a PhD position. The candidate will be integrated into a dynamics research team and have the opportunity to drive a project. See our group and research: chenulab.com

In addition, the Department of Physics and Material Science (DPhyMS) is starting a doctoral training unit in quantum physics (https://quancom.uni.lu). This will offer the candidate a broad background in theoretical quantum physics. In particular, the candidate will have targeted graduate courses and the chance to be embedded within a higher structure. This can foster interaction with other groups at DPhyMS and will create a vibrant environment. Below is a list of potential research topics.

We ask for:
• Excellent analytical and numerical skills;
• Solid knowledge of Quantum Mechanics;
• Strong motivation and creativity;
• Will to lead a project.

The student will join a dynamical team and have opportunities to travel and build their network.

Here is a selection of possible research topic. Please indicate your choice of project, by order of preference, with the motivation
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Project 1: Quantum Chaos and Transport in Network
Using tools from quantum chaos and spectral statistics, the student will characterize the transport properties in a network of random processes (Poisson or Wigner ensembles). We aim to characterize the impact of Hamiltonian symmetries on dynamical effects, such as the transport of excitation. We foresee a collaboration with an experimental chemistry team, that will provide measurement of transport efficient in a real system. The group has expertise in non-Hermitian systems, open quantum systems, and quantum chaos. The successful candidate will look at networks representing non-Hermitian systems and identify the parameters that optimize dynamical properties. The project is purely theoretical, with numerical implementation. The project is broadly defined and can be shaped to the candidate’s interest. The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in the field related to quantum science and technology.

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Project 2: Open quantum dynamics beyond Gaussian environment
The aim of the PhD project is to go beyond the Gaussian description of the environment and derive a description of the open dynamics through a master equation at all coupling strengths, which can interpolate between the Forster and Redfield limits. This will be done by finding the basis that is physically relevant to capture the system and treat perturbatively the rest. In particular, we will focus on non-Markovian effects and systems coupled to a structured environment. The latter will be first modeled with colored noise, which is an extension of the methods currently being developed in the QDC group.

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Project 3: Quantum measurement in strongly interacting systems
Truly quantum behaviour can be witnessed by correlation functions that are non-Gaussian, i.e. that have no classical equivalence. Current theories of quantum measurement are based on Glauber theory, which has been successful to shed light into the relations between the classical and quantum theories of light. We aim to extend the theory of quantum measurement for strongly interacting systems, in order to quantitatively describe how strong or long-range interactions affect observables and correlation functions. This will be looked for using field-theory, based on experimentally accessible correlators. We consider the use of quantum trajectory methods, to unravel for parameter estimation including the effect of quantum measurement. This formalism can lead to the development of protocols to control quantum matter using feedback.
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To apply, please send to contact@chenulab.com with the keyword ‘PhD-ATTRACT’ in the email subject the following:
• Motivation letter, stating your experience and why you are interested in the position;
The letter should indicate interest for the potential project, by order of preference, with the reason for this choice, together with your motivation to join the group.
• Curriculum vitae (include year of birth);

• Contact of at least two persons willing to send a letter of recommendation.

Applications will be processed upon arrival. The position will be closed when filled.


Starting date: March 15, 2025 or later (flexible)