About the project
This PhD project explores van der Waals semiconducting ferroelectrics for programmable, energy-efficient optoelectronic devices. Combining nanofabrication, electrical characterisation and optical spectroscopy, you will investigate how switchable polarisation controls light–matter interactions, aiming to enable nonvolatile optical functionality for future computing, sensing and quantum technologies with reduced power.
This PhD project at the University of Southampton will explore van der Waals ferroelectrics for electrically programmable, energy-efficient integrated optoelectronic devices.
Optoelectronic devices can convert electrical signals to photons and vice versa, with applications in communications, sensing and quantum technologies. However, maintaining their optical configuration often requires continuous electrical power. Ferroelectric materials offer an exciting alternative as their electrically switchable polarisation can persist after the applied voltage is removed. The emerging family of semiconducting van der Waals ferroelectrics hosts strong light-matter interactions, potentially enabling optoelectronic devices with reduced standby energy consumption.
You will investigate how polarisation in van der Waals ferroelectrics can control its optical properties, both within these materials and in heterostructures. Key questions include how interfaces, material thickness and ferroelectric domains influence light-matter interactions, switching behaviour and stability.
The research will combine assembly of van der Waals heterostructures, nanofabrication, electrical measurements and optical spectroscopy. You will fabricate devices in the Southampton Nanofabrication Centre and develop skills spanning materials science, nanoelectronics and integrated photonics. Device characterisation will assess optical contrast, photoresponse, luminescence, switching energy, retention and endurance, establishing opportunities and limitations for practical integration.
You will join the vibrant 2DMINDs research lab within the Sustainable Electronic Technologies research group and be affiliated to the ECS Centre for Neuromorphic Technologies, and contribute to emerging technologies connecting electronic memory with light.
The School of Electronics and Computer Science 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.
