Research Themes:Autonomous Sensing PlatformsSensor Signal ProcessingAimWe will develop fast hardware to deploy real-time Bayesian experiment design to optimise the performance of quantum sensorsObjectivesIntegrate a GPU with a programmable real0time arbitrary waveform generator (QuantumMAchines OPX+) to create a real-time control system capable of fast Bayesian inference and experiment design, with millisecond-scale latencyIntegration of hybrid “grey-box” models (combining an analytical model with data-driven inclusion of imperfections) with Bayesian experiment design and deployment on the hardware system in (1)Benchmarking of the system of different quantum sensing modalitiesDescriptionQuantum sensors represent the generation-after-the-next technology for sensing, exploiting the properties of quantum particles (such as the spin of a single electron) to achieve atomic-scale spatial resolution and/or unprecedented sensitivities.Despite the demonstrated advantages of quantum sensors in applications ranging from defense to healthcare, they are often limited by weak signal (resulting in slow data acquisition and low bandwidth), fragile operation in well-controlled laboratory environment and difficulty of use by non-experts.This project will develop world-first adaptive quantum control hardware, enabling the generation of microwave quantum control sequences with microsecond latency based on GPU-accelerated Bayesian inference and experiment design. The system will deploy real-time Bayesian experiment design to optimize the performance of a spin-based quantum sensor in terms of speed and accuracy, and integrating hybrid analytical/data-driven (grey-box) approaches to improve robustness in hostile and changing environment. Our work will enable the deployment of quantum sensors in real-world applications, such as defense, and could be further extended to different types of “classical” sensors. Closing date: Sat, 31/01/2026 - 12:00 Apply now Principal Supervisor Prof Cristian Bonato Assistant Supervisor Prof Yoann Altman Eligibility Minimum entry qualification - an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or International equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline, possibly supported by an MSc Degree. Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants. Funding Home rate fees and stipend are available for this position.
