The “self-driving” laser

Fibre lasers have revolutionised modern manufacturing, powering everything from smartphone cutting to precision welding in electric vehicles. Yet today’s systems are still blindly obedient: they follow pre-programmed settings, unable to sense, adapt, or learn.

This unique project blends experimental photonics, automation, and AI programming, offering hands-on work with cutting-edge laser systems and the chance to pioneer the intelligent, autonomous manufacturing tools of the future.

Modern manufacturing relies on powerful fibre lasers for cutting, welding, and surface processing, yet today’s systems remain static, operating from pre-set parameters rather than adapting intelligently to changing materials or environments. The challenge, and opportunity, is to create a new generation of “self-driving” lasers that can see, think, and act in real time. 

This PhD will pioneer AI-controlled fibre laser systems capable of autonomously optimising their performance during operation. The research will combine deep learning, reinforcement learning, and generative modelling with experimental photonics and automation. 

You will develop and train advanced neural networks for laser control, combining:

• Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for real-time analysis of laser–material interactions
• Reinforcement Learning (RL) algorithms to adapt laser parameters dynamically for optimal results
• Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) to simulate and predict machining outcomes before they happen. 

Working within the world-leading Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) at the University of Southampton, you will access state-of-the-art ultrafast laser laboratories, high-performance computing (HPC) resources, and opportunities for industrial collaboration with UK partners developing advanced laser manufacturing tools. The intended outcome is a working prototype of an adaptive, self-optimising laser platform, a foundational step toward the autonomous factories of the future. 

This PhD offers exceptional interdisciplinary training at the intersection of artificial intelligence, photonics, and automation. You will gain hands-on experience in:

• ultrafast and fibre laser operation, beam diagnostics, and laser–material interaction experiments
• machine learning for physical systems, including convolutional neural networks (CNNs), reinforcement learning (RL), and generative adversarial networks (GANs)
• experimental automation and control, using Python-based data acquisition, real-time feedback, and embedded systems
• high-performance computing (HPC) for large-scale AI model training and simulation.

You will receive comprehensive technical and professional development through the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) Graduate School, which provides specialist modules in photonics, computational methods, and transferable skills (e.g. project management, communication, and entrepreneurship).

The project also offers opportunities to collaborate with industry partners working on laser manufacturing and intelligent process control, with the potential for short research placements or secondments.

By the end of the PhD, you will be equipped with a unique cross-disciplinary skillset spanning experimental laser science, AI-driven control, and autonomous systems, preparing you for leadership roles in both academic research and high-tech 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.