The world of higher education is swift to respond to new trends and innovations, therefore, it is not surprising that new master’s and doctoral programmes are constantly emerging to address the needs of students in a changing world in numerous academic fields.

Hence, the Quantum Physics Research Group in the Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering at CPUT is engaged in developing quantum technology components. The group currently has funding for master’s and doctoral students. Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering Lecturer, Rory Pent, said the prospective students will be engaged in developing electronic subsystems/ devices or experimental apparatus that will support the quantum technology research of the group.

The prerequisite for this programme is an Honours degree in Electrical Engineering (or experimental physics) for master’s studies or a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering (or experimental physics) for doctoral studies.

Pentz said: “The student must be interested in quantum technologies such as quantum computing, quantum sensors and quantum communications… We have constructed a cold-atoms experiment using rubidium. The cold atoms will be used in a four-wave mixing experiment to create entangled photons for the quantum key distribution system and to develop quantum sensors. We are also developing commercial products such as laser drivers, classical photo detectors, signal photon detectors and electronic counting/timing units.”

He said the research that the student will be doing is cutting-edge research in the field of quantum technology. “Students undertaking this research will be a leader in the area of quantum technology after completion of his/her studies and will be able to contribute to emerging quantum technologies. Students having this knowledge will be more marketable.”

These are postgraduate research degrees and consist of 100% research component. Upon completion, students have the choice of starting their own spin-of companies or becoming academics at institutions of higher learning or working for existing quantum technology companies.

For a master’s degree, the duration is usually two years and for doctoral studies the duration is three years. Funding is available for 2023 to 2025.

For 2023 studies, students need to apply before 31 March 2023. Students should apply to Dr Atanda Raji: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), representing the Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.