What is the topic of your research?
What are you aiming to do and how does it relate to other work in your field?

I study quantum photonics. This means I'm trying to think about how we can use quantum states of light to achieve things beyond what is possible by harnessing only classical physics. One particularly exciting example of this is building quantum computers - devices which can solve certain problems exponentially faster than regular, classical computers.

I have worked on the experimental side, performing experiments with single photons in the lab. I have also worked on the theoretical side where I've looked at how to build and simulate photonic quantum computers. Bristol is a fantastic place to study all of this as we have one of the largest quantum photonics research groups in the world with a tonne of smart, motivated people and a well-equipped lab. 

How far along the journey are you? First year, second year, writing-up etc.?
What has the journey been like so far?

I am in the final year of my PhD and will be starting to write up fairly soon. Upon arriving in Bristol, I was swiftly welcomed into my research group. There was a sociable atmosphere, so I got to know people quite quickly. There has been lots of chances to work with a wide range of people, all coming from different places and background which has given me a lot of opportunities to learn and grow as a researcher. It has been hard work, but I have thoroughly enjoyed my time so far. 

What attracted you to the research opportunities at Bristol?

When I chose to come here, I was already involved with quantum photonics research, and so I saw a huge amount of excellent research coming from Bristol. I visited my research group and had a great time chatting with my supervisor, other students, and postdocs. People seemed to enjoy their work and were solving interesting problems.

What is Bristol like as a place to live?

Bristol is a great city to be in. There are a lot of fun things going on all the time. It has a relaxed atmosphere, great music, pubs and lots of excellent countryside. It's also very hilly and it rains a lot, but I think the pros easily outweigh the cons.

What is it like starting a research degree as a new student?
What advice would you give to someone thinking about doing a research degree in Bristol Physics?

It is always daunting to move to a new city and start a new role. Doing a PhD is a massive change from doing a taught degree, so you need to quickly adapt to being more independent and self-motivated. For choosing a PhD I would suggest that you obviously want to find a topic that is interesting to you, but that it is arguably more important to find a group that has a positive atmosphere.

Try to visit, or find a way of chatting with the other PhD students in the group you want to join. Ask them what they are doing day-to-day and how well they are supported. If their answers fit with what you want from a PhD, then it is probably a good group for you.