About the project
What if the interactions that disrupt optical communications could unlock a new generation of lasers? This PhD will harness the interplay between light travelling in different modes of multimode optical fibres to develop innovative fibre lasers with exceptionally broad spectra, combining theory, simulations and experiments at Southampton’s Optoelectronics Research Centre.
Multimode optical fibres are emerging as a promising technology to dramatically increase the capacity of future communication networks. Different spatial modes can carry independent data channels, but interactions between them cause unwanted cross-talk. What if we could turn this apparent limitation into a powerful advantage?
In this PhD project, you will explore how interactions between spatial modes can be harnessed to develop a new generation of broadband fibre lasers. Our ambition is to generate light over spectral bandwidths well beyond those achievable with conventional fibre laser technologies, opening exciting opportunities in photonics, sensing and spectroscopy.
You will join the Multimode Photonics Group at the University of Southampton's world-renowned Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC). Your research will combine theoretical understanding of nonlinear optical phenomena, advanced numerical simulations and hands-on experiments with multimode fibres fabricated at Southampton.
You will benefit from access to exceptional photonics laboratories, cutting-edge fabrication facilities and powerful supercomputing resources. Research visits to our academic collaborators at Sapienza University of Rome are also envisaged.
Alongside structured training during your first year, you will work closely with leading photonics researchers, engage with industrial partners and have opportunities to publish in high-impact scientific journals and present your results at major international conferences.
This PhD will equip you with advanced scientific and technological skills, preparing you for a successful research career in academia or industry.
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.
