PhD in Monolithic integration of III-V Lasers on Silicon

Supervisory Team: Frederic Gardes, Thalia Dominguez Bucio, Ilias Skandalos 

Project description

Applications are invited for multiple PhD studentships to be undertaken within the silicon photonics group at the University of Southampton. The successful applicants will join a world leading research group of more than 50 postgraduate students and researchers working on silicon photonics technologies and photonic interconnects technologies in close collaboration with academia (University of Cambridge, University College London and Cardiff University) and industrial partners (see links below). The work is linked to a 5-year multimillion pounds project funded by Industry and UKRI/EPSRC UK  (https://gow.epsrc.ukri.org/NGBOViewGrant.aspx?GrantRef=EP/T028475/1) 

This project is tackling major technological roadblocks associated to silicon photonics and aims to demonstrate the monolithic integration of III/V lasers with CMOS photonic waveguiding components. This breakthrough will enable the development of innovative photonic circuits to serve the requirements of a wide range of low-cost optical interconnects and sensing technologies. The student will work alongside other researchers (http://www.gp-iv-photonics.org/), industrial partners, and national and international collaborators. 

We are looking for several enthusiastic candidates with background in photonics, electronics, physics or material science to take on specific aspects of these projects. The work will focus on device simulation and design followed by process development and fabrication using the best University cleanroom facility in the UK (http://www.zeplerinstitute.com/facilities/cleanrooms). Device characterisation will be performed in our state-of-the-art silicon photonics laboratory and in collaboration with our academic partners.  

We are looking for passionate candidates excited about the latest developments in technology. You will work in a multidisciplinary, motivating and supportive environment. You need a background in physics, chemistry, engineering, electronics or equivalent and a basic level of understanding semiconductor physics, photonics and material science. We will support you to expand in all these subjects. Experience with experimental work in either electronics, physics, optics or photonics, and computer modelling, programming languages are also desirable. 

In the Zepler Institute we are committed into sustaining an inclusive environment for all applicants, students and staff. We hold an Athena SWAN Silver Award, and we actively work to improve equality in the workplace and encourage a work-life balance. We have a unique, friendly and supportive environment supported by dedicated mentoring, professional development and wellbeing schemes. 

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. 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

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