PhD in Engineering - Superlattice sensors for MWIR single photon detection

Low cost and high performing cameras are widely available in the visible wavelength range. However mid-infrared (MIR) cameras are costly and most available imagers need cryogenic cooling, restricting the range of application. Type-II superlattice (T2SL) detectors have been proposed as suitable candidates for MIR uncooled detection, and other structures are also under investigation. Using semiconductor material design and growth to realise new MIR imaging and sensing devices the project will advance the state-of-the-art to investigate MIR single photon detection that is of increasing interest for time-resolved and quantum imaging with applications ranging from biomedical imaging to industrial sensing and monitoring.

The student will join a team of researchers with expertise in semiconductor device engineering, infrared imaging and sensing, and material design, fabrication and characterisation. Wafers will be grown by either MBE or MOVPE according to the most suitable methods for the materials in use. Materials will be III-V semiconductors based on but not limited to alloys on Ga, As, In, and Sb, grown using the most appropriate epitaxial method. The student will carry out device fabrication in world-class James Watt Nanofabrication Centre at the University of Glasgow and will characterise the devices that they make in the laboratories of Imperial College or the University of Glasgow to access an excellent range of equipment. The project is multidisciplinary in nature and you will have the opportunity to work with industry and academia. The project will also provide opportunities to publish your research in leading journals and to attend international conferences in the field.

This challenging and exciting project is suitable for a highly motivated UK student with a first class degree in electronic engineering, physics or a related subject. Prior research experience is particularly valued.

The project is funded by QuantIC, the UK Quantum Technology Hub in Quantum Enhanced Imaging, set up to facilitate collaborations between academia and industry to revolutionise imaging across industrial, scientific and consumer markets. Our vision is to pioneer a family of multidimensional cameras operating across a range of wavelengths, timescales, length-scales, creating a new industrial landscape for imaging systems and their applications in the UK.
One of four Hubs, QuantIC is supported by the UK government’s National Quantum Technologies Programme which aims to place the UK in a world-leading position in the emerging multi-billion-pound quantum technology market.

If you are interested in this studentship please send any queries to Professor David Cumming ([Email Address Removed]). Further details of how to make an application can be found at:
http://www.gla.ac.uk/research/opportunities/howtoapplyforaresearchdegree/