There is an open PhD position (4 years, full salary) in the atomic, molecular and laserphysics group of the VU University Amsterdam to setup an experiment for an ultracold mixture of metastable helium and rubidium.

The aim of the project is to observe Efimov trimers in an ultracold mixture of metastable helium and rubidium atoms. The large mass ratio between these two atomic species results in a dramatic reduction of the spacing between successive HeRbRb Efimov states, allowing a first experimental test of the periodicity of the Efimov spectrum. This research will lead to new insight in the emerging field of few-body physics with ultracold atoms, with the aim to better understand and control strongly interacting quantum matter.

Within the PhD project a new infrastructure for ultracold rubidium (87Rb) has to be built up and merged with an existing apparatus for laser cooling of metastable helium (including source and Zeeman slower).

We are searching for an experimental physicist who has already gathered experience in the field of laser cooling and trapping of atoms.

Starting date from 1st June 2011.

Scholarship Application Deadline: Contact Employer(s.knoop-at-vu.nl)

Further Scholarship Information and Application