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This theoretical Project aims to study the generation of a new type of light waves emitted by materials the refractive index of which varies periodically and non-periodically in time. Conventional nonlinear optics involves the frequency conversion of short pulses during their propagation in passive, stationary materials possessing an optical nonlinearity. However, in recent years new materials that allow a rapid temporal variation of the refractive index have become available, paving the way for a more practical approach to a new type of solitary wave (“soliton”) that is localised in time rather than in space. This phenomenon is predicted to generate “flashes” of nonlinear light where the role of space and time is reversed with respect to conventional optical solitons observed, for instance, in optical fibres.
The Project involves theoretical work on the dynamical simulations of pulses in such media, with an emphasis to the analytical understanding of the solutions of dynamical systems associated to the periodic variation of the refractive index. In addition, the quantum mechanical properties of materials with a time-varying refractive index are still unexplored, and present unique features that will open the way to the complete control of quantum emitters that are embedded in such dielectrics.
PhD applicants must have or expect to have a first-class degree or equivalent in physics or engineering course and be strongly motivated with the drive required to pursue intensive theoretical work. The ideal candidate has a good knowledge of optics and photonics and experience with MATLAB and numerical analysis.
Heriot-Watt’s Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences (IPaQS) is a thriving environment for PhD research, having a total of 160 academics, postdocs, PhD and EngD students working full-time in the general photonics field. Heriot-Watt is based in a modern environment on the outskirts of Edinburgh (Scotland, UK), with excellent transport links to the centre of one of Europe’s most exciting cities.
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