PhD Studentship: Precision Microcombs for Quantum Technologies Applications

This PhD project is designed for a highly motivated and innovative early career researcher to build strong skills in experimental and theoretical photonics and quantum optics. The goal is to develop a hybrid microcomb source integrating classical and quantum states in a single system. Leveraging recent advances in topological states and nonlinear optics, the system will generate ultrastable combs for classical communication while producing quantum-correlated photon pairs for secure channels. 

The Emergent Photonics Research Centre is a 500 m² university facility dedicated to complexity in Photonics, spanning Ultrafast Photonics, Optical Frequency Combs in Microresonators, AI for Photonics, and Terahertz technologies. The Centre hosts a multi-million-pound portfolio of equipment and research grants from funders including the ERC, EPSRC, DSTL, Innovate UK, and The Leverhulme Trust, with several early career fellowships and PhD studentships. 

This research aligns with the UK Quantum Missions—targeting ultraprecise clock distribution (QT Mission 4: positioning, navigation, and timing; QT Mission 5: network synchronisation) and practical quantum sources for hybrid networks (QT Mission 2: quantum communications). Related projects include:

• UK Hub for Quantum-Enabled Position, Navigation and Timing (QEPNT) –Glasgow led.
• EPSRC Programme Grant – Chip-Scale Atomic Systems for a Quantum Navigator.
• STFC-NSERC UK-Canada MICROQ – a Loughborough-INRS initiative on microcombs for quantum networking.

You will join Prof Alessia Pasquazi’s team, contributing to leading-author publications and international presentations.

Loughborough University champions inclusivity—see our policies on flexible working, parental leave, and equality charters.

Entry requirements:

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent). We welcome applications from exceptional students with STEM backgrounds (physics, engineering, applied mathematics, advanced mechanics) intersecting with photonics.

English language requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website. 

Funding information:

The studentship is for 3 years, full time equivalent and provides a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees. 

How to Apply:

All applications should be made online via the above ‘Apply’ button. Under programme name, select 'Physics'. Please quote the advertised reference number: SCI25-AP in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.

Advert information