PhD scholarship in solid-state radiofrequency-optical quantum transducers

PhD scholarship in solid-state radiofrequency-optical quantum transducers

In this collaborative project with two industry partners, you will develop quantum-based RF receivers and spectrum analysers.

In collaboration with Diamond Defence and Phasor Innovation, this project aims to develop radiofrequency (RF) receivers and spectrum analysers based on quantum materials acting as RF-optical transducers.

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$34,841 p.a. for 3 years

One (1).

You must: 1) Have a first-class honours or equivalent in physics or related disciplines. 2) Be an Australian citizen.

To apply, please submit your CV and academic transcripts via email to Dr Jean-Philippe Tetienne. The selected candidate will be invited to submit a full application for admission to the PhD (Applied Physics) program.

Applications are open now.

1 Dec 2026.

The transducers developed in this project rely on optically active quantum spins housed in a wide bandgap material to convert an input RF signal into an optical signal, thereby electromagnetically decoupling the RF input from the detection electronics. The quantum-based technology developed in this project has thus the potential to overcome the limitations of traditional semiconductor-based RF detection technology which suffers degraded performance and even damage when subjected to high power signals during jamming events. Two specific quantum materials will be explored in the project: diamond containing nitrogen-vacancy spins, and hexagonal boron nitride containing isotropic spins. The project will involve realising lab demonstrators and prototypes of the proposed quantum RF receivers and spectrum analysers, including designing the RF delivery, optical readout, signal processing, and software interface, and evaluating and optimising their performance.

This scholarship will be governed by RMIT University's Research Scholarship Terms and Conditions.

Dr Jean-Philippe Tetienne via jean-philippe.tetienne@rmit.edu.au

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