PhD Studentship: Opto-Mechanical Properties of Emerging Hollow Core Optical Fibres

PhD Supervisor: Radan Slavik

Supervisory Team: Prof. Radan Slavik, Dr. Mohammad Mousavi, Dr. Ali Masoudi, Prof. Francesco Poletti

Project description

At the Optoelectronics Research Centre, we are leading the world in developing a new generation of optical fibres that promise a revolution in applications ranging from optical communications to ultraprecise optical sensors.  Our hollow-core optical fibres harness some truly intriguing physics to guide light in an air-filled core region over tens of kilometres distance and are now rivalling and outperforming standard optical fibres. However, their transformative potential in many areas remain largely unexplored.  This project’s objectives are to study the response (or the lack thereof)  of hollow-core fibres to external stimuli such as vibrations and sound waves and establish in which fields of science and engineering this can address shortcoming of existing optical fibres. Examples could include ultra-stable interferometers (for high-precision measurement) or distributed acoustic sensing (e.g., for structural monitoring).

Applications are welcome from candidates with a background in mathematics, physics and engineering. We are looking for enthusiastic applicants that are keen to join a vibrant environment and looking to make a difference. You will be working within a group of world-renowned scientists at the forefront of research into an exciting technology and have access to state-of-the art hollow core fibres and top-class optical laboratories. You will also interact with our partners such as National Physical Laboratory in London or Microsoft UK.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Prof. Radan Slavik, Head of the Advanced Fibre Application Research Group, Email: r.slavik@soton.ac.uk.

Entry Requirements

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

Closing date

Applications are accepted throughout the year.

The start date will typically be late September, but other dates are possible.

Funding

For UK students, tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI rate plus £2,000 ORC enhancement tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years (totalling around £21,000 for 2024/25, rising annually). EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for scholarships. CSC students are eligible for fee waivers. Funding for other international applicants is very limited and highly competitive. Overseas students who have secured or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). Select programme type (Research), Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD ORC”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor.

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

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

The Optoelectronics Research Centre is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking to study part time. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.

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