Research Fellow in Polaritonics (1026218WF)

Recently we proposed polariton lattices as a new platform for analogue simulation. Polariton lattices benefit by the continuous optical readout of the phase, energy, momentum and spin of the individual polariton vertices, the strong inter-particle interactions−mediated through the exciton component-, room temperature operation−with appropriate choice of materials-, and even the potential for electrical injection, utilizing well-developed semiconductor technologies.

Inverse scattering problems, namely reconstructing the shape of objects from their scattered intensity distributions occur in many fields of science and technology, such as tomographic imaging (MRI, CT scan), seismology, single shot X-ray scattering and imaging. Solving the inverse scattering problem, in cases where all the phase information is lost, is generally very difficult. This difficulty is alleviated by resorting to some a priori knowledge such as the boundaries within which the object lies (compact support), sparsity or other spatial features. Under such “restrictions”, it is possible to reconstruct the object using iterative algorithms, such as the well-known Gerchberg-Saxton algorithm. Unfortunately, the algorithms are time consuming and do not always converge to the right solution even with advanced computational resources. In this project, we will design and realise a polariton simulator to address inverse scattering problems with the aim to demonstrate solutions within the coherence lifetime of the polariton condensates (10ths of picoseconds; 6-9 orders of magnitude faster than current supercomputers).

We seek candidates with a PhD* or relevant qualifications and experience in Physics or relevant engineering discipline, knowledge of and keen interest in fundamental physics, optics, inverse problems, quantum, laser and semiconductor physics, and expertise in experimental photonics, and advanced spectroscopies.

The researcher will join a strong international team of students, postdoctoral and academic staff working together on many aspects of cutting-edge research in polaritonics and quantum simulation.

This project involves close collaboration and therefore international travel at the Weizmann Institute of Science, and MIT-Skoltech.

This post is available for 12 months.

Interested candidates should contact Prof Pavlos Lagoudakis (lagous@soton.ac.uk ) for further information.

Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

Application procedure:

You should submit your completed online application form at www.jobs.soton.ac.uk.The application deadline will be midnight on the closing date stated above. Please note that applications will be assessed as soon as they are received.  Do not delay your application.  Interviews may be held and appointments made before the stated expiry date. If you need any assistance, please call Rosie McPhail (Recruitment Team) on +44 (0) 23 8059 4043. Please quote reference 1026218WF on all correspondence.

Closing Date: 29 Jul 2018
Post Type: Education, Research & Enterprise