Single-photon systems for environmental sensing

This project aims to investigate the use of novel single-photon detectors for remote environmental sensing. The successful candidate will evaluate the use of single-photon technologies to access various parts of the spectrum that may be suitable for applications such as the remote sensing and evaluation of greenhouse gases, pollutants, and foliage health. Detection of these greenhouse gases is critical to the investigation of the Earth's atmosphere, and for monitoring climatic change.

This project will involve both hands-on experimental work in indoor laboratory conditions and in challenging outdoor environments, and desk-based work such as data analysis. Therefore, the candidate will develop skills in single-photon detection, optical design, and image processing. The candidate will also develop their skills in areas such as field trial organisation, academic writing, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Applicants must have or expect to have a first-class degree or equivalent in a physics or engineering course and be strongly motivated with the drive required to pursue 3.5 years of intensive practical and theoretical work. The ideal candidate has a good knowledge of optics and photonics and experience in a laboratory environment is expected.

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. Heriot-Watt is both leading and a partner in a number of EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training.