About the project
Photonic integration is becoming a key solution for next-generation information technologies. Compared with the existing technologies in the near-infrared wavelength band, UV/blue light integration is emerging as an attractive subdivision in integrated photonics. With the advantages of a smaller footprint and a larger bandwidth, UV/blue integrated systems hold the promise in vast applications.
This includes, but is not limit to, visible light communications, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) systems, inter-satellite communications, light detection and ranging (Lidar), high-density data storage, quantum photonic chips, chemical/biological photonic chips, and non-Von Neumann photonics.
The objective of this innovative research project is to realise a hybrid system comprising UV/blue light sources fabricated from the third-generation wide band gap semiconductors (group III-nitride materials) and the photonic components based on rapidly developing Si photonics (for example, waveguides, optical couplers, modulators, detectors).
The successful candidate will join the Group IV Photonics research group in the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) at the University of Southampton. Within this interdisciplinary project, you will develop a solid knowledge and practical skills in semiconductors and photonics. All the work will be carried out at the ORC, home to a number of modern cleanrooms and advanced testing labs.
The work is mainly composed of the:
- design and fabrication of III-nitride laser diodes
- optimisation and fabrication of waveguides, photonic couplers, and photodetectors
- characterisation of the electrical and optical properties of both the individual devices and the integrated systems
