Development of a Femtosecond Pump–Probe Microscope for Ultrafast Optical Studies University of Birmingham in United Kingdom

This PhD opportunity at the University of Birmingham’s School of Physics and Astronomy focuses on the development of a femtosecond pump–probe microscope for ultrafast optical studies. The project aims to design and build a cutting-edge microscope capable of monitoring photoluminescence (PL), reflection, and transmittance with sub-picosecond temporal resolution and micron-scale spatial precision. Such advanced instrumentation is pivotal for direct observation of carrier dynamics, exciton formation, and energy transfer in materials like semiconductors, nanostructures, and quantum composites.

As a doctoral researcher, you will develop a table-top ultrafast optical platform integrating a femtosecond laser source, beam-splitting and delay-line optics, and a high-stability microscope stage. The system will feature spectrally tunable pump and probe beams, synchronised detection electronics, and advanced imaging optics to capture transient signals across multiple channels. This will enable real-time mapping of ultrafast processes, including carrier relaxation, nonlinear absorption, and excitonic recombination.

Your responsibilities will include designing and assembling the microscope, implementing delay-line scanning for sub-picosecond time resolution, and integrating spectrally tunable pump/probe sources. You will also develop data acquisition and control software (using Python/Matlab, with optional FPGA integration) for synchronised measurements, characterise system performance using benchmark samples, and apply the instrument to study advanced materials such as 2D semiconductors and nanoplasmonic composites. The project encourages exploration of advanced techniques like polarisation-resolved pump–probe and multi-channel detection.

Training will be provided in ultrafast lasers, nonlinear optics, precision optomechanics, spectroscopy, data analysis, and instrument control. You will have access to state-of-the-art photonics labs and cleanroom facilities, and collaborate with leading research groups. Opportunities to attend international conferences are available, supporting your professional development.

The impact of this research is significant, enabling direct visualisation of ultrafast phenomena critical for next-generation optoelectronic devices, quantum materials, and photonic technologies. Your work will contribute to breakthroughs in energy conversion, high-speed photonics, and fundamental condensed matter physics.

Applicants should have a background in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Photonics, with an interest in ultrafast optics, instrumentation, and laser systems. Experience with optical alignment or programming is desirable but not essential, as training will be provided. The School of Physics and Astronomy is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, holding both the Institute of Physics Juno Champion and Athena SWAN Silver Award. Applications from under-represented groups in physics are especially encouraged.

Applications are accepted year round, with a start date in October 2026. To apply, submit your CV, academic transcripts, and a one-page statement of research interests via the University of Birmingham portal. For informal enquiries, contact Dr Andre Kaplan at [email protected].