About the project
Broadband light sources could transform how we diagnose disease, detect hazards and monitor our environment. This PhD will design, fabricate and test next-generation miniaturised optical sources capable of emitting light across exceptionally wide frequency ranges, combining nanophotonics, simulations and experiments to explore their potential in practical sensing and photonic technologies.
Light sources that combine a miniature footprint with an exceptionally broad emission spectrum could enable new technologies across healthcare, security and environmental monitoring. Yet conventional laser sources face important limitations when broad spectral coverage must be achieved within compact devices. This PhD will explore new nanophotonic approaches to overcome these barriers.
You will design, fabricate and experimentally investigate a new class of miniaturised optical sources. The research will combine theoretical understanding of light–matter interactions, computational modelling and practical device development, with the aim of extending the frequency range of emitted light beyond that accessible with conventional laser technologies.
You will analyse how nanophotonic design choices directly affect optical emission spectra. Such sources could open opportunities in non-invasive medical diagnostics, including optical analysis of breath for potential cancer biomarkers; security technologies, such as the detection of explosive substances and infrared countermeasure systems for civilian aircraft; and environmental applications, including air-pollution monitoring and renewable-energy technologies.
You will join the Multimode Photonics Group at the University of Southampton’s Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC). You will receive hands-on training in nanofabrication, optical measurements and advanced simulation techniques, with access to state-of-the-art laboratories, cleanroom facilities and high-performance computing.
Alongside structured training in your first year, you will work closely with researchers across the ORC and have opportunities to engage with industrial partners. You will be encouraged to publish in leading scientific journals and present your research at international conferences.
This PhD will equip you with skills for a research career in academia or the photonics 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.
