Optical metasurfaces offer complete freedom in definition of an optical function and do so on a flat surface. This property enables fabrication of sophisticated optics at wafer-level and therefore opens up the possibility of ultra-high-volume manufacture, in particular to address consumer markets. STMicroelectronics is a world leader in this domain, mass-producing optical metasurfaces for use in consumer sensing applications in its semiconductor fabrication facilities. ST Edinburgh is the design centre for our optical metasurface technology, here we focus R&D on design, simulation and new technology development, working with product design engineers to define technologies that address exciting consumer markets.
This project intends to build on our existing foundation by exploring the use of visible wavelength compatible metasurfaces in the consumer sensing and display space. By moving to the visible wavelengths, we will use metasurface technologies to improve performance and ergonomics of human-machine interfaces. Visible wavelength compatible reflective and transmissive optical metasurfaces have the potential to increase the efficiency and feature-set of these optics. The aims of this project are to understand the fundamental principles of optics in a large variety of personal electronic devices, either user facing or world facing, how current technology solutions perform and how optical metasurfaces can be used to improve this performance.
The successful candidate will develop design and simulation methodologies, collaborate with fabrication partners to develop proofs of concept, have the freedom to introduce new features in this space enabled by optical metasurfaces and do this within a company that is leading the way in the fabrication of optical metasurfaces for use in the consumer electronics markets.
CDT Essential Criteria
A Masters level degree (MEng, MPhys, MSc) at 2.1 or equivalent.
Desire to work collegiately, be involved in outreach, undertake taught and professional skills study.
Project Essential Criteria
MSc or equivalent in Physics.
Imaginative, self-motivated individual with demonstrable problem-solving skills.
Able to operate both individually and as part of a team.
Happy to present their work, the candidate must be a good communicator.
Desire to interact with external end-users of the developed technology.
Project Desirable Criteria
Experience in any of the following is desirable:
Fundamental Topics
- Diffractive optics
- Laser physics
CAD
- Optical design and simulation using ray-tracing (e.g. Zemax / CodeV)
- Rigorous optical simulation (e.g. FDTD)
Software development
- Experience writing scripts and functions in Matlab and/or Python
- C# experience
Way of working:
- Experience with working in version controlled environment, collaborating on software with other engineers
- Understanding principles of design for manufacture
The CDT
The CDT in Applied Photonics provides a supportive, collaborative environment which values inclusivity and is committed to creating and sustaining a positive and supportive environment for all our applicants, students, and staff. For further information, please see our ED&I statement: https://bit.ly/3gXrcwg.
Forming a supportive cohort is an important part of the programme and our students take part in various professional skills workshops, including Responsible Research and Innovation, and attend outreach training.
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