Job Description
Project details
The Quantum Systems Engineering (QSE) Research Group at Loughborough University has re-established with the ambition of becoming a world-class leader in the emerging, cross-disciplinary field of Qussical Systems – systems that integrate quantum technologies into existing classical infrastructures, such as secure communication networks and reliable navigation systems. Systems engineering plays a crucial role in enabling these integrations, ensuring the effective transition of quantum innovations into real-world applications.
With a strong track-record in the offering of systems engineering education and the delivery of cutting-edge research in model-based systems engineering, our group is committed to pioneering a digital engineering environment over the next five years. This initiative will drive the development, evaluation, and assurance of next-generation quantum technologies in a virtual operational environment.
This PhD programme is a full-time, four-year opportunity that provides formalised training in model-based systems engineering in the first year. This is then followed by the formulation of your research proposal, led by yourself but co-developed with your supervisors and domain experts from the industry. As a PhD candidate, you will engage in high-impact research at the intersection of quantum science and engineering, and professional bodies such as the INCOSE UK Quantum Systems Engineering Working Group. You will also have the opportunity to work closely with renowned partners such as the National Physical Laboratory, ensuring that your research contributes to real-world advancements in quantum-integrated systems.
We welcome applications from passionate and ambitious individuals with a background in quantum physics, computer science, systems engineering, or other relevant STEM disciplines. This is an ongoing opportunity, and applications are reviewed on an individual basis. Our team is committed to supporting applicants in securing competitive funding schemes where needed.
If you are eager to shape the future of quantum-integrated systems and contribute to groundbreaking research, we encourage you to get in touch. To learn more about our work, visit our Quantum Systems Engineering research group website.
For further enquiries or to discuss potential projects, please contact Dr Siyuan Ji.
The School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering has seen 100% of its research impact rated as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ (REF, 2021).
Supervisors
Primary supervisor:Â Dr Siyuan Ji
Secondary supervisor:Â Prof Michael Henshaw
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours.
Entry requirements for United Kingdom
A minimum of an upper-class honours degree (2:1) or overseas equivalent in a STEM subject area, or equivalent relevant industrial experience.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2025-26 entry
UK fee
£5,006 Full-time degree per annum
International fee
£28,600 Full-time degree per annum
Fees for the 2025-26 academic year apply to projects starting in October 2025, January 2026, April 2026 and July 2026.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.
How to apply
Applications should be made online via the ‘Apply’ button. Under programme name, select ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering/Electronic, Electrical & Systems Engineering’ and quote the advert reference number SF-SJ-2025 in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit your CV and the minimum supporting documents. Incomplete applications after the advert closing date may not be considered.
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.
