PhD Studentship in Nanophotonics Plasmonics and Metamaterials Extraordinary Nonlinearities of Light in Complex Media

Applications are invited for a postgraduate researcher to join a new research project in the Integrated Nanophotonics group at the University of Southampton. The aim of this project is to develop new optical experiments studying extreme light scattering in nanophotonics. Research in the group aims to explore fundamental physics and develop new applications of light in nanostructured environments, including high-index semiconductors, plasmonic nanoantennas and metamaterials. The laboratory is equipped with state of the art equipment and has access to world-leading nanofabrication facilities.

A fully funded PhD place on this project is available for UK and EU applicants, through a Leverhulme Research Grant. In this project we study how light interacts with nanomaterials that are optimized to maximally scramble light by extreme scattering. The combination of light trapping and ultrafast lasers sets the scene for new and extraordinary effects where the flow of light can be actively controlled and manipulated. The project involves experimental research using state of the art facilities and equipment, combining fundamental questions with potential new applications. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with good experimental research skills and a degree in physics, photonics engineering or another relevant subject. This project focuses on experimental optics research with a component in theoretical and numerical modelling. We work together with collaborators in the Netherlands and Germany, and activities will involve short research visits to these groups. A substantial budget for research consumables and travel is available.

For more information, please visit our group website at https://inanophotonics.southampton.ac.uk/ and contact Prof. Otto Muskens (O.Muskens@soton.ac.uk).

Entry requirements: first or upper second-class degree or equivalent.

Closing date: applications should be received by March 2019 latest.

Duration: 3 years (full-time) with a possible extension by 6 months (pending additional funding).

Funding: full tuition fees for UK students, and a tax-free stipend of 14,777 per year.

Assessment: Nine month and 18 month reports, viva voce and thesis examination.