Current PhD Studentships

School of Physical Sciences at The Open University

Based in Milton Keynes
 

We are currently recruiting for the following full-time, fully funded PhD studentship to start in October 2025:
 

Brief outline: This project provides access to research facilities and training both at the OU and Strathclyde, along with regular collaboration with leading experts in quantum computing and experimental physics. There will be a requirement to attend periodic meetings of the Oxford QCi3 Hub, which funds this project. The studentship is for 3.5 years.

Further details are available here:

Demonstration of Deterministic QC with one clean qubit (DQC1) on a eutral atom array 

How to apply

This project is now closed for applications
 

  • a completed Application form UK if you are classed as a home student.
  • an up to date CV.
  • a list of individual courses taken and grades obtained.
  • a personal statement.
  • any other relevant information that you think may support your case for consideration.

You do not need to submit a research proposal, as it is already defined by us. You are encouraged to contact the lead supervisor of the project, Dr Silvia Bergamini, for any informal enquiries.

Interviews will take place remotely shortly after the application deadline. 
 

Funding and Eligibility

This studentship is funded for 3 years and 3 months, with the possibility of an additional 3 month extension. It attracts a stipend of £20,780 per year (2025/26 rate) and covers the home-student University fees. The studentship also includes a research training support grant.

To be eligible for funding, applicants must meet the UKRI academic requirements. We normally require candidates to have at least a 2:1 at UK BSc or MSc level.
 

 Advice and Guidance

Please contact STEM-SPS-PHD@open.ac.uk with any questions about general administration, eligibility, suitability, funding or the nature of PhD research. Our PhD administrators Debbie Briggs/Charlotte Coakley and postgraduate research tutor Richard Greenwood will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

We are committed to widening participation and awarding PhD studentships to a diverse community of applicants. We particularly welcome applications from under-represented groups. Equal Opportunity is University policy.