Vortex Dynamics in Ultracold Quantum Mixtures – University of Strathclyde

Project to start Oct 2025.

In a quantum many-body system the interactions between the constituent microscopic particles lead to emergent macroscopic phenomena. Such phenomena include superfluidity (fluid flow without viscosity) and superconductivity (conduction of electricity without resistance). Novel phases such as high-temperature superconductivity form the basis of quantum materials, where useful emergent properties can lead to new technologies. Studying the dynamics of vortices (quantum whirlpools) can give key insight into the inner workings of these systems. Superfluids formed of ultracold atoms provide an extremely clean and well-controlled system for studies of collective quantum behaviour. They enable exquisite control over interactions, geometry, and rotation (vorticity). Importantly, in superfluids formed of mixtures of ultracold atoms we can tune the interactions to emphasize quantum effects such as fluctuations.

 A key aim of this research project is to explore regimes where the behaviour of the superfluid depends on its inherent quantum nature. This will drive our fundamental understanding of superfluidity as a collective quantum phenomenon. The successful student will join the Quantum Fluids research team, run by Dr Kali Wilson. They will work closely with the supervisor and other team members on a state-of-the-art experimental apparatus designed to explore vortex dynamics in binary superfluids. The apparatus is currently being developed, and a major focus of the Phd project will be design and implementation of optical systems for controlled vortex nucleation in the superfluid mixture.

The successful student will also acquire practical skills in the areas of quantum technologies, optics and atomic physics. These skills include working with lasers, designing optical systems, high-resolution imaging and image processing, cooling and trapping atoms, as well as electronics and mechanical design.

Informal inquires can be made to Dr Kali Wilson, kali.wilson@strath.ac.uk

For more information on our recent research see the group webpage at https://bit.ly/QuantumFluids

Information on Strathclyde’s EDI policies can be found here https://www.strath.ac.uk/professionalservices/accessequalityinclusionservice/equalitydiversity/