PhD Position in Quantum Information Theory
City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) – Hong Kong–Dongguan Joint Training Scheme
Expected Admission Time: June 2027
I, Prof. Michael Xuan Cao, am recruiting one PhD student in Quantum Shannon Theory under Dongguan PhD Project of City University of Hong Kong. The programme leads to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Physics awarded by City University of Hong Kong.
The position offers a PhD studentship of no more than 48 months and an opportunity to conduct theoretical research in quantum information theory under joint supervision.
Supervisors
Supervisor: Prof. Oscar Dahlsten, Associate Professor, Department of Physics, City University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong).
Co-supervisor: Prof. Michael Xuan Cao, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, City University of Hong Kong (Dongguan)
Prof. Dahlsten's research covers quantum information theory, including quantum information foundations, quantum thermodynamics, quantum computing, and quantum correlations.
Prof. Cao’s research focuses on classical and quantum information theory, particularly finite-blocklength information theory, channel simulation, information-theoretic asymptotics, and adversarial information-processing tasks.
Research Directions
The main research area is quantum Shannon theory, with potential topics including:
• Quantum channel coding, capacities, and channel simulation
• One-shot and finite-blocklength quantum information theory
• Second-order asymptotics, large deviations, and error exponents
• Quantum hypothesis testing and channel discrimination
• Information-theoretic problems involving adversarial quantum channels
Specific research topics will be determined through discussions with the supervisors, taking into account the student's interests and background.
Candidate Requirements
We are particularly interested in candidates with strong mathematical backgrounds, especially in linear algebra.
Ideal candidates should have:
• A strong foundation in linear algebra, including matrix analysis, eigenvalue problems, and positive semidefinite operators
• Mathematical maturity and the ability to understand and construct rigorous proofs
• A background in mathematics, physics, electrical engineering, computer science, or a related discipline
• A genuine interest in theoretical research and fundamental questions in quantum information
Knowledge of probability theory, information theory, optimization, or quantum mechanics would be advantageous.
Prior research experience in quantum information theory is welcome but not essential. Mathematically strong candidates who are motivated to learn quantum information theory are encouraged to apply.
Applicants must also satisfy the PhD admission requirements of CityUHK.
Programme Arrangement and Financial Support
The successful applicant will be enrolled as a PhD student at City University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong), with the following training arrangement:
Stationed at Hong Kong campus: HKD 19,100 (Basic Rate) or HKD 19,600 (Advanced Rate) per month
Stationed at Dongguan campus: RMB 12,000 per month
The rates stated are for 2025/26, and are subject to review and revision every year.
During the first year, the student will complete the required coursework in Hong Kong. During Years 2–4, the student shall conduct scientific research in Hong Kong or/and Dongguan based on the needs of the project, working closely with Prof. Cao while maintaining collaboration with Prof. Dahlsten.
Upon successful completion of the PhD requirements, the student will receive a PhD degree awarded by City University of Hong Kong. The academic programme is administered through the Hong Kong supervisor's department, namely the Department of Physics.
The normal full-time PhD study period is four years. The programme provides financial support for four years only; funding is not available under this arrangement beyond Year 4. All academic and graduation requirements are governed by CityUHK's PhD regulations.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to contact me by email with:
1. A curriculum vitae (CV)
2. Academic transcripts
3. A brief statement describing their mathematical background, research interests, and motivation for pursuing a PhD in quantum information theory
4. Any relevant research work or publications, if available
Contact: Prof. Michael Xuan Cao
Email: michael.cao@cityu-dg.edu.cn
Suggested email subject: PhD Application – Quantum Shannon Theory
Formal admission is subject to the selection and admission procedures of City University of Hong Kong.
Further details about the university's PhD programmes and admission requirements can be found at:
https://www.cityu.edu.hk/en/pg/research-degree-programmes/introduction
I welcome inquiries from motivated students who enjoy mathematical thinking and wish to pursue research in quantum information theory.
