PhD position – Quantum sensing

Subject : Multi-axis quantum accelerometer for onboard applications
iXatom is a joint research lab between the Laboratoire Photonique Numérique et Nanosciences (LP2N, ), specialized in novel atom interferometry techniques, and Exail ), a world industrial leader in the fields of photonics, inertial navigation and cold atom sensors.

In this unique environment at the boundary between fundamental research and applications, we are studying the next generation of quantum inertial sensors based on cold atoms, for onboard environments. By combining classical and quantum sensors, it is possible to improve the performance of inertial navigation systems by at least one order of magnitude with respect to existing technologies. However, using cold atom interferometers in moving carriers comes with many challenges which require in-depth studies before practical applications can exist.

The objective of the PhD project is to develop a multi-axis hybrid accelerometer with optimized performance despite the constraints relative to the movement of the vehicle. Beyond the proof of concept, the goal is to demonstrate the required precision for inertial navigation and onboard gravimetry.

This work will prepare future measurement campaigns on board a vehicle (truck, boat) and will include several aspects:

• Data fusion: Understanding how the hybridization of classical (accelerometers and gyroscopes) and quantum sensors can be optimized, both through hardware improvements and advanced sensor fusion techniques such as Kalman filtering.
• Multi-axis measurements using atom interferometry.
• Studying the systematic effects of a hybrid accelerometer in a dynamic environment, to ensure that the measurement accuracy is as high as possible.
• Tests on moving platforms simulating the real environment in acceleration and rotation.
• Experimental development: integration of the laser system, temperature stabilization …
• Master's degree or equivalent (or evidence of its near-term completion) in physics or engineering
• Theoretical and experimental knowledge in one or more of the following fields: optics, quantum physics, signal processing
• A strong taste for experimental work
• PhD funding : CIFRE
• Location : Institut d'Optique d'Aquitaine, Bordeaux (France)