Power and energy scaling of solid-state lasers

Rapid progress has been made in power and energy scaling of diode-pumped solid-state lasers. However, there remain challenging research opportunities for scaling further, and in matching the laser performance parameters to different industrial applications. The PhD studentships are available through the recent appointment of Daniel Esser to the Chair in Laser Device Physics and Engineering. They are aligned with the newly-funded EPSRC Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Laser-based Production Processes. With support from our strong industry partners SELEX-Galileo and Rofin-Sinar UK Ltd, the CASE-enhanced studentship projects will be within the following two research themes:

Theme 1: High average power ultra-fast laser technologies
This theme investigates the technologies underpinning the development of new commercial ultra-fast pulse lasers at high (kW) average powers with spectral outputs in the IR, visible and UV. Work will focus on device architectures which will allow power scaling to the kW range for trains of laser pulses with durations in the range 500fs to 100ps. Research will include integration of new ultra-fast pulse laser oscillators aiming for high stability and to minimise component count and laser footprint. Power amplification strategies will be evaluated including modern gain medium structures. High power multi-bar diode laser pump strategies with novel techniques for beam combining with maintained beam brightness will be investigated as laser amplifier pump sources. Particular attention will be devoted to design and fabrication techniques to minimise manufacturing costs and maximise system efficiency.

Theme 2: New materials and architectures for mid-infrared solid-state lasers
This research theme addresses the latest developments of solid-state laser systems operating in the mid-infrared wavelength range (from 2 µm to 8 µm). The focus will be on demonstrating outstanding performance in terms of power and energy scaling, as well as high-efficiency systems which could find application in various industries. New host materials for Tm- and Ho-doped lasers operating at 2 µm will be investigated. The latest high-brightness laser diode technology will be utilised as pump sources, as well as highly-customised beam correcting optics to demonstrate high-efficiency 2 µm laser systems. Conversion techniques, based on modern non-linear crystals and other device architectures, will be used to convert further into the infrared. The experimental research will be underpinned by mathematical modelling/simulation of the required laser device physics, which could also be applied to a wider range of laser systems.

Career focussed:
As CASE PhD studentships, the students will spend a fraction of their research time at the supporting company and may be co-supervised by senior experts in the company. This will provide the PhD student beneficial exposure to laser development and laser applications at our industry partners. Heriot-Watt has a proud history of successful placements of PhD graduates at UK and international photonics companies.


Enquiries may be addressed to Prof. Daniel Esser at [Email Address Removed]