Advanced Sensors for Planetary Missions & Astrophysics

Supervisory Team: Austin Taranta, Natalie Wheeler, Radan Slavik, Francesco Poletti

Project description

PhD Opportunity: Advanced sensors for planetary missions & astrophysics

Are you ready to embark on a journey of otherworldly research? Do you want to be part of the space revolution that is pushing the frontiers of humankind and helping us understand our world and our climate? If so, then join the world-leading Hollow Core Fibre group at the University of Southampton and develop advanced sensors that are enabling the next generation of space missions.

Project Overview

This research project aims to develop the next generation of space flight instruments and control systems using hollow core optical fibres (HCF). In this project, you will develop advanced HCFs for space deployment and discover new realms for the application of optical physics. You will work closely with space agencies and industrial partners at the forefront of spaceflight technologies to develop new inertial sensors for space navigation and new gas sensors for space-based atmospheric monitoring.

Roles and Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, you will:

• Develop custom HCFs for use in gyroscopes, gas sensors, and other space systems.
• Collaborate with NASA, ESA, or UKSA and industrial partners at the forefront of space systems in the UK and USA.
• Create new technologies and develop systems that will one day orbit the earth, or reach other planets

We are seeking candidates with a strong interest in optics and a desire to contribute to future space systems. Candidates must have a background in physics, engineering, or material science. This project will explore many facets of optical fibre sensing, gas sensing, and space environment effects (ionizing radiation, cosmic rays).

Join Us

This is a unique opportunity to work with a world leader in HCF technology. The project is based at the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) at the University of Southampton. The ORC has led the world in optical fibre technology research for the past 50 years. With over 90 state-of-the-art laboratories and 200 researchers working in all areas of photonics, the ORC provides an outstanding interdisciplinary environment for students to grow.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date

Applications are accepted throughout the year. The start date will typically be late September, but other dates are possible.

Funding

For UK students, tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI rate plus £2,000 ORC enhancement tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years (totalling around £21,000 for 2024/25, rising annually). EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for scholarships. CSC students are eligible for fee waivers. Funding for other international applicants is very limited and highly competitive. Overseas students who have secured or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.

How To Apply

Apply online via the ‘Apply’ button above. Select programme type (Research), Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD ORC”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor.

Applications should include:

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk