PhD in Nanoplasmonic Semiconductor Light Detector: Device Design, Fabrication & Optimisation 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 next-generation nanoplasmonic semiconductor photodetector. The project aims to engineer a working device that leverages nanoplasmonic semiconductor composites as the active material, offering extended spectral sensitivity beyond conventional semiconductor bandgaps, enhanced responsivity through localised surface plasmon (LSP) field amplification, and ultrabroad bandwidth for high-speed operation.

The core fabrication route involves nanoporous silicon scaffolds embedded with plasmonic nanoparticles via electroless or immersion plating. While this process is established, the research will optimise it specifically for photodetection applications. You will tune the composite’s porosity, particle size, and plasmonic resonance to target specific wavelengths, integrate electrical contacts, and develop low-noise readout electronics. The challenge is to translate the composite process into a complete detector architecture, including optical and electrical interfaces, packaging, and rigorous performance testing. The ultimate goal is to deliver a prototype device that demonstrates the full potential of nanoplasmonic-semiconductor technology for advanced photonic sensing.

Project Milestones:

• Design the detector stack, including the optical entrance window, nanoplasmonic absorber layer, carrier collection/contact scheme, and low-noise readout.
• Optimise fabrication parameters such as porosity, particle size/density, and plasmonic resonance for visible to near-infrared/silicon wavelength bands.
• Benchmark device performance: responsivity (A/W), noise equivalent power (NEP), detectivity (D*), bandwidth, linearity, dark current, and stability.
• Iterate and optimise materials and processes, conduct thermal/optical modelling, reliability tests, and device packaging.
• Demonstrate applications in fast imaging/sensing and SERS-assisted detection variants.

Training & Environment:

• Hands-on experience in nanofabrication (cleanroom), porous silicon lab, SEM/TEM, optical spectroscopy, and ultrafast lasers.
• Device testing using calibrated sources, lock-in techniques, bandwidth/linearity, and noise measurements.
• Optional training in firmware/data acquisition (FPGA/SystemVerilog) and Python signal processing.
• Collaborations with photonics and industry partners, with pathways to commercialisation.

Candidate Profile: Applicants should have a background in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or Nanotechnology, and a keen interest in photodetectors and plasmonics. Experience in nanofabrication, device testing, or optical spectroscopy is desirable but not essential. The School of Physics and Astronomy is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, holding the Institute of Physics Juno Champion status and Athena SWAN Silver Award. Applications from under-represented groups in physics and astronomy are strongly encouraged.

Funding: This is a competition-funded PhD project, typically covering tuition fees and a stipend, subject to eligibility and competition outcomes.

Application Process: Applications are accepted year-round. To apply, submit your CV, academic transcripts, and a 1-page statement of research interests via the University of Birmingham portal. Informal enquiries can be directed to Dr Andre Kaplan at [email protected].

References: Nanoscale Horiz., 2021, 6, 781-790; Adv. Optical Mater. 2021, 9, 2002119.

Start Date: October 2026.