Quantum Systems Engineering (Ref: SF-SJ-2026)

About the Project

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 research group website: https://www.lboro-qse.org/.

For further inquiries or to discuss potential projects, please contact Dr Siyuan Ji at s.ji@lboro.ac.uk.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:

Dr Siyuan Ji s.ji@lboro.ac.uk

Name of secondary supervisor:

Prof Michael Henshaw

https://www.lboro-qse.org/

https://www.lboro.ac.uk/research/mbse/

Entry requirements:

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.

Bench fees required: No

Start date: 01 October 2026; 01 February 2027; 01 July 2027

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 4 years

Fee band: 2024/25 Band RB (UK £ tbc, International £27,500)

How to Apply

All applications should be made online. Under ‘programme name’, select ‘Model-Based Systems Engineering’ and quote the reference number ‘SF-SJ-2026’ in your application.

Applications must include a personal statement, up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV), details of two referees (one from your highest degree qualification), certified certificates and transcripts for all completed degree programmes, and a reference to the project ‘SF-SJ-2026’.

Project search terms:

quantum computing, systems engineering, MBSE, Quantum Technology, Quantum Communication Network, Quantum Cryptography, Quantum-based PNT, Quantum Sensing

Email address Wolfson:

ws.phdadmin@lboro.ac.uk