"And therefore, the problem is, how can we simulate the quantum mechanics?...We can give up on our rule about what the computer was, we can say: Let the computer itself be built of quantum mechanical elements which obey quantum mechanical laws. " - R. P. Feynman

Study in sunny subtropical Brisbane, Australia, within the new ARC Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems (EQuS – http://www.equs.org) at the University of Queensland – ranked in the top 100 institutions internationally.  We have a vacancy for a promising domestic or international student for a new experimental project, utilizing ultracold atoms for quantum simulation (http://www.equs.org/quantum-simulation-neutral-atoms-experiment). 

By lowering the temperature of an ultracold gas of 87Rb and 41K atoms, a novel state of matter known as a Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC) is produced. These atoms will be then loaded into a configurable optical trap created through the rapid modulation of a tightly focused optical beam. With the ability to address and measure individual atoms in the optical trap, a toolbox for the simulation of magnetic spin systems will be realized.  Immediate applications to the understanding of as-yet unexplained quantum magnetic phenomena, and unconventional superfluidity, are the direct goals of this research.

This experimental project will allow for the development of diverse and transferable skills, including electronic and optical design, experimental system design and implementation, software design, and data analysis. This project will also allow for attendance of related international workshops and conferences.  There will also be the opportunity to interact with other projects within EQuS, as well as the theoretical quantum atom optics group at the University of Queensland (http://www.physics.uq.edu.au/BEC/)

The remuneration for this position begins at $25,007 p.a. tax free, and indexed annually.  A priority top-up scholarship of $5000 is available for exceptional candidates.