PhD Studentship: Glass Surface Interactions in Hollow Core Fibres

We are looking for a new PhD student with a background in chemistry, materials science and/or physics to join us to study the surface chemistry of thin glass membranes in hollow core fibres (HCFs). 

HCFs are an exciting, novel optical fibre technology where light is guided in an air filled core. At the University of Southampton, we have a world-leading group, which designs, characterises and fabricates state-of-the-art HCFs in our specialist facilities and we recently reported a new world record low loss for this type of optical fibre. HCFs are now contenders for a diverse range of interesting applications, including telecommunications, high power laser delivery and novel medical diagnostics. 

Now the optical lifetime of these fibres is becoming critical for their successful deployment. The hollow core is surrounded by a cladding structure formed from thin glass membranes with extreme dimensions, for example, with a width of only 30 nanometres but extending along the full fibre length (several kilometres). These membranes therefore present a novel and interesting platform for glass surface dynamics. We want to study the interactions between these surfaces and air (or other gases) within the fibre.

In this project, you will fabricate new HCFs, focussing on understanding the impact of different fabrication processes on the properties of the glass surfaces within the fibre and linking this to lifetime of the final fibre in various applications. You will become an expert in both fabrication and characterisation of HCFs, while developing a high level of understanding of glass science. You will work with experienced researchers, have access to a wide range of equipment and work with external partners to maximise the impact of your work.

In the first year of your PhD, a structured training programme runs alongside the research project, providing a gradual transition from taught degree to open-ended research. Students present their work at conferences worldwide, first-author papers in leading academic journals and emerge with skills at the forefront of glass and fibre optics research https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2_6yNQamkU. Former PhD researchers have made successful careers in universities worldwide or as industry scientists and business leaders.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Natalie Wheeler, Advanced Fibre Technologies Research Group, Email: n.v.wheeler@soton.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 3588.

Entry Requirements

A good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: Applications are accepted throughout the year and several start dates throughout the year are possible. Applications for the typical Sept./Oct. 2023 start should be received no later than 31 August 2023.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £20,000 tax-free p.a. for up to 3.5 years. 

Applications should include:

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

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

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