PhD Studentship: Picometre Surface Nanoscale Axial Photonics

Closing Date: 1^st April 2025 [23:59 GMT]

Supervisor: Prof M. Sumetsky

Prospective Start Date: 1 July 2025 

Applications are invited for a Postgraduate studentship, supported by Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies to be undertaken within the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Aston University.

Financial Support

This studentship includes a bursary to cover the fees rate, plus an annual maintenance allowance of £ 19,795.

Details of the Project

It has recently been recognised that the fabrication of a range of emerging photonic microdevices promising to revolutionise computer, communication, and sensing technologies must be performed with unprecedented picometre (one-hundredth of the atomic size) precision.

The successful candidate for this PhD position will be involved in the experimental and theoretical development of a new technology called Surface Nanoscale Axial Photonics (SNAP), which will enable this astonishing picometre fabrication precision.

Further aims of the project include:

Theoretical modelling of nanoscale effects and processes in SNAP

Development of experimental methods of picometre-precise fabrication of miniature optical devices at the surface of an optical fibre

Applicants are welcome to join the Nanoscale Photonics group of Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies (AiPT), one of the world’s leading photonics research centres. AiPT cultivates an environment where academics, post-doctoral researchers and PhD students cooperate to overcome major scientific challenges in a welcoming and collegial atmosphere. Our successful track record of scientific achievements ranges from nanoscale and nonlinear photonics and fibre lasers to medical lasers and bio-sensing for healthcare and the high-speed optical communications technology that underpins the internet and the digital economy.

Person Specification

The successful applicant should have been awarded, or expect to achieve, a Masters degree in a relevant subject with a 60% or higher weighted average, and/or a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (or an equivalent qualification from an overseas institution) in a relevant subject. Preferred skill requirements include:

• Strong analytical and numerical calculation skills and mathematical modelling skills
• Strong skills in solid state physics and quantum mechanics
• Experience in theoretical modelling and experimental investigation of optical devices including optical microresonators

We would particularly like to encourage applications from women seeking to progress their academic careers. Aston University is committed to the principles of the Athena SWAN Charter, recognised recently by a prestigious Silver Award to EPS, and we pride ourselves on our vibrant, friendly and supportive working environment and family atmosphere.

Contact information

For formal enquiries about this project contact Prof Misha Sumetsky m.sumetsky@aston.ac.uk

Submitting an application

Find the full details and instructions on how to submit an application please click on the above 'Apply' button

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