Solitary Waves in Supersolids (PROMENTD_U26EMP)
Key Details
- Application deadline
- 31 March 2026. Project is open to Home applicants only.
- Location
- UEA
- Funding type
- Self-funded
- Start date
- 1 June 2026
- Mode of study
- Full-time
- Programme type
- Masters by Research
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Project description
Primary supervisor - Dr Davide Proment
Come and join the research group of Dr Davide Proment to find out what type of solitary waves exist in supersolids.
Supersolids are a fascinating quantum phase of matter that simultaneously exhibit the crystalline structure of solids and the frictionless flow of superfluids. Recently, dipolar Bose–Einstein condensates (dBECs) have provided an ideal platform for realising and studying supersolidity in ultracold atomic systems. Breakthrough experiments have demonstrated the emergence of supersolid phases and observed quantised vortices within them, opening exciting questions about nonlinear excitations in such media.
This MSc by Research project aims to uncover nonlinear solitary wave solutions in supersolids, described by an extended Gross–Pitaevskii equation that incorporates long-range dipole-dipole interactions and quantum fluctuation effects via the Lee–Huang–Yang correction. You will use both theoretical analysis and numerical simulations to explore solitary excitations in this system.
Collaboration with experimental groups working on dipolar quantum gases may be pursued, depending on interest and project developments.
By undertaking this project, you will develop expertise in solving nonlinear partial differential equations, implementing numerical algorithms, reviewing scientific literature, delivering research presentations, writing academic reports, and engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration.
By joining Dr Proment's research group at the University of East Anglia (UK), you will become part of a team with strong expertise in theoretical and numerical modelling of nonlinear phenomena. The group’s interests span quantum fluids, nonlinear optics, water waves, and out-of-equilibrium systems.
We are seeking a talented and motivated candidate with a bachelor’s degree in physics or equivalent. A solid foundation in PDEs, numerical methods, and quantum mechanics is essential; prior knowledge of fluid dynamics, continuum mechanics or quantum fluids is advantageous.
For further information, including references to relevant literature, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Dr Davide Proment via email at d.proment@uea.ac.uk.
Entry requirements
The standard minimum entry requirement is 2:2 in Physics (or equivalent, for example Applied Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Computer Sciences).
Funding
This project is offered on a self-funding basis. It is open to applicants with funding or those applying to funding sources. Details of tuition fees can be found here.
A bench fee is also payable in addition to the tuition fee to cover specialist equipment or laboratory costs required for the research. Applicants should contact the primary supervisor for further information about the fee associated with the project.
UEA Alumni 10% Scholarships - A scholarship of a 10% fee reduction is available to UEA Alumni looking to return for postgraduate study at UEA, Terms and conditions apply. For a postgraduate master’s loan, visit our Postgraduate Student Loans page for more information.