Magneto-optic Phenomena in Dielectric Metamaterials (956318EH)

The University of Southampton’s Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) hosts the UK’s flagship research programme on photonic metamaterials - a new generation of nanotech-enabled materials with engineered, actively controllable optical properties (see: Science 348, 973 (2015); http://www.nanophotonics.org.uk).

These advanced materials offer dramatically enhanced and indeed completely new modes of interaction between light, matter, and electric or magnetic signals in ultrathin films, opening the door to an era of ‘flat optics’ and a step-change in the miniaturization of optical devices.

This PhD project, sponsored by the British multinational advanced technology company QinetiQ (www.qinetiq.com) under the Dstl Materials for Strategic Advantage (MSA) programme, will investigate magneto-optic effects in planar metamaterials, looking at ways in which new materials and nanostructures can provide novel and/or metamaterial-enhanced functionalities such as components transmitting light only in one direction and optical switches controlled by magnetic field.

We seek candidates with a knowledge of physics or materials science, an interest in photonic technologies, and a desire to develop advanced skills in materials discovery and characterization, computational electromagnetic modelling, nanofabrication, and experimental photonics. The student will join a strong international group of students, postdoctoral and academic staff working together on many aspects of cutting-edge nanophotonics research.

To discuss any details of the project informally, or to arrange a visit to meet us and see our facilities, please contact Kevin MacDonald (kfm@orc.soton.ac.uk) or Nikolay Zheludev (niz@orc.soton.ac.uk).

The ORC PhD programme: www.orc.soton.ac.uk/postgraduate-phd

The ORC is a world-leading photonics research organisation of around 200 research staff and students, famous for the development of novel photonic technologies underpinned by cutting-edge research in materials. The ORC PhD programme offers a solid start to any career in optics and photonics, whether you are planning to stay in academia or work in industry.

Eligibility: Applicants must be a UK or EU nationals (dual nationals may be considered)

Funding: Full tuition and an enhanced tax-free stipend of £18,000 per annum for up to 3.5 years.

Apply online: www.orc.soton.ac.uk/how-to-apply

Closing Date: 31 Aug 2018
Post Type: PhD Studentship (Funded)