Surface Plasmons for Enhanced Mid-Infrared Quantum Dots Photodetection

Supervisory Team:   Dr. Nema Abdelazim

The University of Southampton is ranked 1^st in electrical and electronic engineering subjects (The Guardian University Guide, UK universities 2023 rankings). SET, one of the leading research groups in the UK, envisions offering unique solutions to the real-world problem by delivering efficient electronics while addressing all aspects of sustainability. Experimental quantum nanotechnology is the main area of research for our team. We are particularly interested in quantum dots and 2D materials applications

We have diverse expertise ranging from devices to systems, and our state-of-art research facilities and strong collaborations with industry enable us to explore new ways to innovate advanced nanoelectronics. We are looking for exceptional candidates to join our team, interested in devoting their passion to addressing some of the challenges we have identified. More information about the SET research group can be found at: https://www.set.ecs.soton.ac.uk/

Project description:

Small, semiconducting nanoparticles known as quantum dots (QDs) are being extensively researched for use in a wide range of electronic devices, including solar cells, light detectors, light-emitting diodes, and transistors. Their benefits include being simple and inexpensive to produce, as well as the ability to deposit thin films for device manufacturing using processes that may be scaled up for solution processing.

Significant hurdles still exist in post-fabrication tuning of plasmonic devices and metamaterials in the visible and near-infrared spectral ranges. In this research, various approaches will be considered for regulating the plasmonic characteristics of noble metal antenna connected to quantum emitters for photodetection applications.

You will become highly trained in fabrication and characterisation of novel quantum devices, room usage, device testing and the use of nano-fabrication tools to prepare devices. You will have access to our state-of-art cleanroom and materials & electrical characterisation facilities, and we have excellent research staff and technicians that will support your research (https://www.southampton-nanofab.com/). We have one of the largest and best cleanrooms in all of Europe.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent) or an MEng/MSc (or equivalent, or near completion) with first-class honours or distinction in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science or a closely related subject, such as Electronics and Chemistry. Basic knowledge of nanotechnologies or electronics is a plus.

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 19 April 2023 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £17,668 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years. Self- or co-fund international students are welcome to apply.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). Select programme type (Research), 2022/23, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select "PhD Elect & Elect Eng (Full time)". In Section 2 of the application form, you should insert the name of the supervisor Nema Abdelazim

Applications should include:

Research Proposal (free form, 1 page A4)

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts to date

Overseas applicants should achieve an IELTS score of 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each competency. Click here for information on this and other accepted English language tests.

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