About the project
Hollow-core fibres (HCFs) guide light through air. Considered the next generation of optical fibre, they are attracting strong industrial interest. However, there are many designs and applications still to be exploited. This project will explore designs for larger cores suitable for transmitting high power laser light.
Hollow Core Fibres are a new generation of optical fibre that guide light in air, with very little material overlap. Optical fibre underpins the internet, this new fibre brings many improvements such as ultra-low latency and increased data rates. As a result of recent progress here at the University of Southampton, we are seeing a surge in industrial interest, but there are many challenges that remain. Beyond the telecoms application lie many industrial and scientific applications and the fibres might look very different. In this project we will look at much larger structures that guide more spatial modes of light. The project will explore how the light propagates, how the fibre can work with different lasers and how new designs can open up applications.
This project would particularly suit you if you're someone who enjoys understanding how things work, developing ideas and finding creative ways through technical problems. You should be willing to work independently while also contributing to a supportive team, sharing ideas openly and learning from colleagues with different expertise. You'll join a collaborative research environment bringing together expertise in fibre design, fabrication, optical characterisation and numerical modelling.
We maintain many collaborations with industrial partners in both the fibre production and application spaces. The project will provide opportunities to build skills in both a laboratory setting as well theoretical and numerical modelling. Regular interaction with the wider team will help you connect detailed modelling to real fabrication challenges and wider research goals.
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.
