About the Project
The University of Southampton’s Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) hosts the UK’s flagship research programme on photonic metamaterials - a new generation of nanotech-enabled materials with engineered, actively controllable optical properties (see: Science 348, 973 (2015); www.nanophotonics.org.uk ).
These advanced materials can offer dramatically enhanced and completely new modes of interaction between light, matter, and electric or magnetic signals in ultrathin films, opening the door to an era of ‘flat optics’ and a step-change in the miniaturization of optical devices. This PhD project is sponsored by the British multinational advanced technology company QinetiQ (www.qinetiq.com) under the Dstl Materials for Strategic Advantage (MSA) programme. It will investigate magneto-optic effects in planar metamaterials, looking at ways in which new materials and nanostructures can provide novel and/or enhanced functionalities, such as components transmitting light only in one direction and optical switches controlled by magnetic field.
We seek candidates with a knowledge of physics or materials science, an interest in photonic technologies, and a desire to develop advanced skills in materials discovery and characterization, computational electromagnetic modelling, nanofabrication, and experimental photonics. The student will join a strong international group of students, postdoctoral and academic staff working together on many aspects of cutting-edge nanophotonics research.
To discuss any details of the project informally, or to arrange a visit to meet us and see our facilities, please contact Kevin MacDonald ([Email Address Removed]) or Nikolay Zheludev ([Email Address Removed]).
The PhD programme:
The ORC PhD provides a solid education for a research career (www.orc.soton.ac.uk/phdprogram.html). The structured first year involves attending our training programme running in parallel with carrying out your research project. This provides a smooth transition from your degree course towards the more open-ended research that takes place in the following years under the guidance of your project supervisors. We expect our students to present their work at major international conferences and to write papers in leading academic journals as their research progresses.
The ORC is a world-leading photonics research organisation of around 200 research staff and students, famous for the development of novel photonic technologies underpinned by cutting-edge research in materials. Its mission is to combine applications-led research with fundamental studies into the generation, transmission and control of light. A PhD here has enabled our past graduates to make successful careers in academia, in national scientific laboratories, and as scientists or business leaders in industry.
Key facts:
• Apply online: http://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page#applying_for_a_postgraduate_research_degree
• Entry requirements: First or upper second-class degree or equivalent.
• English language: IELTS 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component (for information on other accepted English Language tests, please visit https://www.southampton.ac.uk/admissions_language)
• Closing date: Applications for 2018 entry are open now; early application is strongly advised.
• Duration: up to 4 years (full-time).
• Start date: Typically September/October but other dates are possible.
• Assessment: periodic written reports and viva voce examinations determine progression; PhD award is subject to final thesis submission and viva voce examination.
Funding Notes
A fully-funded PhD position is available including paid tuition fees and a tax-free bursary of £18,000 per annum to cover your living expenses.
Applicants must be a UK or EU nationals (dual nationals may be considered).
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