Electrically Driven Quantum Light Sources from Two-Dimensional Materials

This PhD project at the University of Southampton, within the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering, focuses on developing reliable and cost-effective on-chip quantum light sources using foundry-compatible two-dimensional (2D) materials. The research aims to advance photonic quantum information processing by creating electrically driven, high-purity entangled single-photon emitter arrays. These arrays are essential for scalable quantum photonics and quantum information technologies. The project will leverage advanced nanofabrication and spectroscopy techniques to control strain, spin injection, and twist angles in 2D materials, enabling the generation of entangled photons coupled to spin-polarised carriers—a major challenge in the field. Building on recent breakthroughs in ultraclean 2D material fabrication, metal contacts for spin injection, and controlled defect engineering, the research will investigate how surface adsorbates, strain, and interlayer twist angle affect electroluminescence from single-photon emitters. The long-term goal is to develop cost- and energy-efficient methods for producing and controlling quantum emitters on chip. The successful candidate will fabricate optoelectronic devices in the Southampton Nanofabrication Centre, one of the UK's leading university cleanrooms, and will assess device performance within the Sustainable Electronic Technologies and Quantum, Light and Matter research groups. Opportunities for research visits to the National Physical Laboratory and the University of Cambridge for spectroscopic characterisation are available. The position offers substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills, and is supported by a competitive UKRI TechExpert stipend (around £31k/year for UK students), with studentships at the UKRI base rate for EU, Horizon Europe, and international students. Applicants should have a background in microelectronics, materials science, solid-state physics, or electrical engineering, and are encouraged to apply regardless of background, with a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. The University of Southampton provides a supportive environment, including consideration of personal circumstances, onsite childcare, and a strong commitment to sustainability. The application deadline is 31 July 2026, with an earlier deadline of 31 March 2026 for international applicants.