Optimisation of Bias Magnet for Quantum Magnetometer
Engineering, IT, Mathematics and Statistics
PLEASE NOTE
- Due to the sensitivity and security of this project, students must have Australian Citizenship or Permanent Residency to apply.
- This research internship is funded in partnership with Space Research Network (SRN), students must be from an SRN member university to apply. This includes most NSW Universities and ANU (USyd, UTS, UNSW, MQ, UoN, WSU, UoW, ANU).
ABOUT THE INDUSTRY PARTNER
In a world where data is more abundant, valuable, and volatile than ever, the challenge lies not just in finding the data but in discerning meaning, relevance and reliability. Misinterpretation carries high stakes, especially when decisions must be made fast and with confidence. Deteqt is unlocking a new layer of environmental intelligence by capturing and interpreting the rich tapestry of magnetic field signatures everywhere. Our magnetic sensing platform enables field aware intelligence revealing and interpreting hidden signals to drive sharp insights and decisive action.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Unique opportunity to contribute directly to the next stage of development for a state‑of‑the‑art, fully integrated quantum magnetometer.
- Experience in a dynamic, fast‑growing startup during a pivotal phase of its development.
- Introduction to a highly collaborative quantum technology ecosystem at the Sydney Knowledge Hub, located on the University of Sydney campus.
RESEARCH TO BE CONDUCTED
Deteqt is developing highly integrated, compact, quantum magnetometer systems.
A bias magnetic field is used in nitrogen‑vacancy (NV) diamond magnetometry to lift the degeneracy of the mₛ = +1 and mₛ = −1 spin states, creating distinct resonance frequencies that allow measurement of both the magnitude and sign of external magnetic fields. The homogeneity of this bias field directly influences the quality of the ODMR spectra, and improving its uniformity can substantially enhance the precision, stability, and sensitivity of vector magnetic readout.
In this project, the student will apply both theoretical modelling and experimental techniques to design, implement, and test improved bias‑field configurations.
SKILLS WISH LIST
If you’re a postgraduate research student and meet some or all the below we want to hear from you. We strongly encourage women, indigenous and disadvantaged candidates to apply:
- Solid Python programming skills for numerical computation and visualisation.
- Understanding of electromagnetism fundamentals, particularly magnetic field theory.
- Experience with simulation tools such as FEniCS, COMSOL, or similar modelling environments (useful but not essential).
- Strong problem‑solving ability and confidence working with mathematical models.
- Experimental skills to acquire the relevant parameters for models and test models.
RESEARCH OUTCOMES
- High-fidelity models of magnetic fields generated by the bias magnet throughout the sensing volume of the diamond‑based quantum magnetometer.
- A documented analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of different approaches for producing a homogeneous magnetic field within a few mm³ volume.
- Quantitative comparisons of active and passive methods for generating magnetic bias fields.
- A refined NV‑diamond ODMR spectroscopy model incorporating the improved bias‑field configurations.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
The intern will receive $3,300 per month of the internship, usually in the form of scholarship payments.
It is expected that the intern will primarily undertake this research project during regular business hours and maintain contact with their academic mentor throughout the internship either through face-to-face or phone meetings as appropriate.
The intern and their academic mentor will have the opportunity to negotiate the project’s scope, milestones and timeline during the project planning stage.
Please note, applications are reviewed regularly and this internship may be filled prior to the advertised closing date if a suitable applicant is identified. Early submissions are encouraged.
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