Postgraduate research project

Quantum nano-optical metadevices

Funding
Competition funded View fees and funding
Type of degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Entry requirements
2:1 honours degree View full entry requirements
Faculty graduate school
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Closing date

About the project

Controlling nanoscale light−matter interactions will be foundational for advanced quantum nanophotonic devices, including optically/electrically pumped light sources, switches, modulators, and photodetectors. In this project we will engineer coupling of quantum emitters, such as quantum dots, atomic defects in 2D materials or Moiré superlattices, to metasurfaces for future monolithic chips with indistinguishable emitters.

Engineering light−matter interactions will be foundational for advanced quantum nanophotonic devices. A motivation that drives this research field is the industry demand for monolithic integration of photonics and optoelectronics to achieve all-optical interconnects, photonic logic gates, and quantum networks.

This next generation photonic systems requires advances that allow, for example, the precise placement of quantum emitters, such as quantum dots, atomic defects in 2D materials or Moiré superlattices, into photonic cavities.

During the project you'll explore metasurfaces as optical cavities to study phenomena like coupling multiple quantum emitters for indistinguishability or fostering strong or ultrastrong light−matter interactions for tuning nonlinear interactions. You'll do it through a blend of experimental activities, theoretical analysis and numerical modelling.

You'll join the ORC, a world-leading photonics research organization, and collaborate closely with students, researchers and academic experts. You'll be encouraged to take initiative, develop and test your own ideas. You'll have the opportunity to engage in collaborations, research meetings and to present your work at major international conferences. Your research is expected to generate several papers in leading academic journals and contribute to shaping the future of this exciting field.

As you progress through the project, you'll gain highly transferable skills in cleanroom nanofabrication, photonic and optoelectronic materials, device design, manufacturing and characterisation, numerical simulations. You'll also explore new concepts and play an active role in shaping innovative ideas. This experience will prepare you for opportunities in academia and industry.

Find out more about our postgraduate research in Photonics and Optoelectronics