About the project
Help create the next generation of hollow-core optical fibres for faster, more efficient communications. Working at the University of Southampton’s Optoelectronics Research Centre with Microsoft Azure Fiber, you will design, fabricate and test advanced fibres while developing valuable skills across photonics, materials, engineering, data analysis, industry collaboration and innovation.
Hollow-core fibres guide light through air rather than solid glass, creating exciting opportunities to transmit vastly more data with lower latency and the potentially greater efficiency. In this PhD, you will help turn this emerging technology into practical solutions for future communications networks.
Based at the University of Southampton’s internationally recognised Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC), you will collaborate with colleagues at Microsoft Azure Fiber. You will learn how to design fibre structures, fabricate them (in our cleanroom facility), and evaluate their optical performance using advanced laboratory techniques.
The results of your work will inform the next generation of fibres supporting applications in:
- cloud communications
- quantum technologies
- scientific instruments
- space systems
- Artificial intelligence
Through this project you will develop skills in:
- photonics and fibre optics
- fibre modelling and design
- experimental research
- research communication
At the ORC you will join a diverse PhD community within a centre employing >150 researchers, with opportunities to collaborate across disciplines, engage with industry, present your work internationally, and develop transferable skills.
This combination of fundamental science, hands-on engineering, and industrial relevance offers an excellent platform for careers in research and technology, or the UK’s growing photonics sector. If you are curious, practical, and motivated to join a strong and dynamic team that is looking to revolutionise the way we communicate, then this PhD offers the ideal opportunity for you.
The School of Optoelectronics (ORC) is committed to promoting equality, diversity 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 flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
