PhD Studentship: Tantalum Pentoxide Resonators for Single Photon Generation and Microcombs

Supervisory Team: Prof Vasilis Apostolopoulos, Prof Alberto Politi 

Project description:

The University of Southampton is expanding its PhD research in the area of Quantum Technology Engineering. In addition to the research project outlined below you will receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills. 

In this project we will investigate integrated optics to generate frequency combs, and single photon sources. Both of these devices are fundamental components in Quantum technology. Frequency combs are specialized lasers that produce a spectrum of equally spaced and precise spectral lines. The Physics Nobel Prize in 2004 was given on the invention of frequency combs. Frequency comb systems are important for many applications, such as timekeeping, spectroscopy, metrology, communication. Single photon sources are devices that can produce light with only one photon at a time. They are useful for quantum information applications, such as, quantum cryptography, quantum metrology, quantum computation. 

With our technology we can make an impact on both of these technologies. We aim to realise optical frequency micro-combs and single photon emitters based on efficient nonlinear optical waveguide micro-resonators that exhibit the Kerr effect. We will use a silicon photonics platform with a tantalum pentoxide waveguide system for the development of micro-resonators that can support soliton formation at excitation wavelengths between 1 μm and 1.5 μm to achieve single photon emission through four wave mixing and Kerr combs. Single photon sources and Kerr combs are useful tools in Quantum computing and cryptography and we will pave the way towards integration of devices with laser sources. 

If you are interested, please contact the supervisors for more information: Vasilis Apostolopoulos v.apostolopoulos@soton.ac.uk, Dr. Alberto Politi a.politi@soton.ac.uk  

Entry Requirements

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

Closing date: 31 August 2024. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified. 

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered. 

How To Apply

You should submit your completed online application form by clicking the ‘Apply’ button above. Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Physics (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Prof Vasilis Apostolopoulos 

Applications should include:

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

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

The University of Southampton is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and 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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