Novel MCF functional components for optical communication and sensing applications

Currently, the capacity of single mode fibre (SMF) has reached its limit. Spatial Division Multiplexing (SDM) is recognised as the key technology to enable future ultra-high capacity optical communication. Multi-core-fibre (MCF) has been developed and demonstrated to implement high capacity SDM transmission. Moreover, MCF has also been applied for sensing applications. However, MCF is currently only used as a transmission medium and the signals have to be coupled in/out the MCF to perform signal processing functions, this is the main issue of MCF-based SDM systems.

This project aims to develop novel functional components based on MCF to perform in-line signal processing on SDM signals in each core of the MCF. The research involves both theoretical and experimental investigations. The project will develop modelling tools, design and analysis MCF based components, develop fabrication techniques using laser inscription technology and demonstrate the applications of these functional components in optical communication network and sensing systems. The student has the opportunity to carry out experiments in a world leading telecommunication labs in Japan and UK.

We will consider student with good undergraduate Physics or Electronic Engineering backgrounds, or related disciplines. Studentship is available for UK and EU citizens. The studentship will cover all tuition fees and offer an enhanced stipend for a full four years. Self-funded students from other countries are also welcome to apply.

Heriot-Watt’s Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences 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, with excellent transport links to the centre of one of Europe’s most exciting cities. Heriot-Watt was recently awarded (November 2013) an EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Applied Photonics, cementing Heriot-Watt’s reputation as a centre of excellence in photonics, and providing PhD students with an even more attractive environment for study, as well as enhanced training opportunities. IPaQS is one of the main partners in the Scottish Universities Physics Alliance (SUPA) whose Graduate School provides added value to PhD student education in Scottish Physics Departments, principally in terms of inter-University video-linked taught courses and transferable skills tuition.