Developing Novel Superconducting Materials for Quantum Technologies

Scalable quantum technologies require advanced superconducting materials that can be seamlessly integrated with semiconductor platforms. Superconducting germanides and silicides, formed through controlled reactions between metals and semiconductor substrates, have emerged as particularly promising candidates. This project will explore innovative approaches to synthesize and pattern these materials, working towards establishing a new generation of hybrid quantum devices.

The research will focus on developing and optimizing methods for creating superconducting germanides through controlled metal diffusion into germanium quantum wells and germanium substrates. The project will systematically investigate synthesis parameters and conditions to understand formation mechanisms and optimize superconducting properties. Advanced characterization techniques, including electron microscopy and x-ray analysis, will be employed to study the structural and electronic properties of these novel materials. The developed material platforms will then be implemented and tested in functional quantum devices.

A significant emphasis will be placed on developing innovative lithographic and processing methods to enable precise nanoscale patterning of these materials. The project will explore both conventional and emerging fabrication techniques to create well-defined nanostructures essential for quantum applications. The quality and functionality of the fabricated structures will be comprehensively assessed through detailed electrical, radio-frequency, and structural characterization at cryogenic temperatures.

Through this project, the student will develop comprehensive expertise spanning advanced materials synthesis, thin film growth, nanofabrication, and materials characterization. They will gain extensive hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment in materials growth, clean room processing, microscopy, and low-temperature measurements. This broad technical foundation will provide an excellent pathway towards a career in quantum technologies or advanced materials development.

The research combines materials science expertise in thin film growth and semiconductor processing with emerging needs in quantum technology development. The work will be carried out in a collaborative effort between the newly established quantum devices group led by Dr. Greg Mazur and Professor Susannah Speller's team, which brings world-leading expertise in superconducting materials.

Informal inquiries can be directed to greg.mazur@materials.ox.ac.uk