PhD Studentship in Highly Charged Ion Clocks for New Physics Exploration

This PhD project at the University of Birmingham focuses on advancing atomic clock technology by pioneering a novel clock based on highly charged californium ions (Cf17+). The research aims to detect variations in fundamental constants, offering insights into dark matter, dark energy, and physics beyond the Standard Model. The candidate will work on cryogenic ion trapping, laser cooling, precision spectroscopy, and quantum-logic techniques, with a six-month collaboration at MPIK Heidelberg. The project combines experimental physics, quantum technology, and fundamental research to create a precision system capable of exploring uncharted physics regimes.

• Develop and operate the first atomic clock using highly charged californium ions (Cf17+).
• Conduct experiments in cryogenic ion trapping, laser cooling, and precision spectroscopy.
• Implement quantum-logic spectroscopy techniques for clock transition measurements.
• Collaborate with MPIK Heidelberg for precision measurements of Cf HCI atomic structure.
• Design and build ultra-stable lasers for clock transition stabilization.
• Analyze experimental data to search for temporal variations in the fine-structure constant.
• Contribute to the comparison of the new clock with an optical strontium clock.
• Publish findings in high-impact journals and present at international conferences.