About the project
This project advances amorphous nonlinear photonics by inducing second order optical nonlinearity in amorphous thin films for broadband, on-chip modulators and quantum devices. Combining design, simulation, thermal poling, microfabrication, and characterization, it develops scalable photonic platforms for communication, sensing, and quantum technologies such as on-chip photon pair generation.
Amorphous materials offer significant advantages for integrated photonics, including low-cost thin-film deposition, ease of patterning and etching, and compatibility with large-area or heterogeneous substrates. However, their use in electro-optic (EO) systems has been limited due to the absence of second-order optical nonlinearity (χ²), essential for EO modulation and wavelength conversion. We recently demonstrated stable induction of χ² nonlinearity in Nb₂O₅ amorphous thin films via thermal poling, achieving performance comparable to crystalline materials like LiNbO₃ while remaining compatible with standard waveguide fabrication processes, including lithography, etching, cladding, and metallisation. This advancement establishes a foundation for amorphous nonlinear photonics.
This project aims to develop a scalable amorphous nonlinear photonic platform to realize broadband, high-performance on-chip modulators and spectrometers spanning visible, near-infrared (NIR), and mid-infrared (mid-IR) wavelengths. By integrating EO functionality into platforms that currently lack it, and combining with heterogeneous integration (e.g., Silicon Photonics), these materials can enhance optical communication, LIDAR, RF-over-fibre links, environmental sensing, and biomedical spectroscopy.
The project will include design and simulations of integrated optical devices, thermal poling, microfabrication in our cleanrooms, and characterization, test, and measurement for device operation. Beyond conventional applications, it will explore integrated quantum photonics through on-chip photon pair sources based on spontaneous parametric down-conversion for quantum key distribution and random number generation. By uniting material innovation with application-driven design, this research aims to enable multifunctional photonic chips with wide spectral coverage, scalable fabrication, and robust nonlinear performance for future optical and quantum technologies.
The School of Optoelectronics (ORC) is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
