PhD Studentship: Photonic Time–Space Correlator (PhoTiSC) for Ultra-Fast 3D Imaging & Time-Resolved Microscopy University of Birmingham in United Kingdom

[Competition-funded PhD project. Funding is awarded competitively and typically covers tuition and stipend for successful candidates.]

This PhD studentship at the University of Birmingham offers an exciting opportunity to develop the Photonic Time–Space Correlator (PhoTiSC), a cutting-edge instrument for ultra-fast 3D imaging and time-resolved microscopy. The project aims to revolutionize photon detection by enabling simultaneous measurement of photon arrival time and position with sub-nanosecond precision. Existing solutions for advanced imaging are often expensive or limited in performance; PhoTiSC provides a cost-effective alternative by integrating ultrafast timing detectors with novel position-sensitive sensors.

As a PhD researcher, you will be involved in the full development cycle—from concept to prototype—designing and integrating optical and electronic components, validating the system in laboratory settings, and deploying it in real-world experiments. The technology has broad applications in scientific imaging, compact LiDAR systems, and advanced microscopy, with significant potential for industrial impact and commercialization. You will gain hands-on experience in optics, high-speed electronics, FPGA-based readout, and data analysis, collaborating with leading academic and industrial partners such as Hamamatsu, Laser Components, and Dstl.

The training environment includes access to cleanroom and nanofabrication facilities, advanced optical laboratories, and data analysis resources. You will develop skills in experimental optics, high-speed electronics, FPGA design, and commercialization strategy, working within a supportive and collaborative research group. The project also offers opportunities for international travel and industry engagement, including integration of the prototype into a reaction microscope at TU Dortmund and presentations at international conferences.

The impact of this research spans scientific, technological, societal, and commercial domains. Scientifically, it enables sub-nanosecond timing in imaging workflows and advances photonic instrumentation. Technologically, it delivers a cost-effective alternative to high-end detection systems. Societally, applications include robotics, medical imaging, and defense. Commercially, the project aims for technology readiness levels 4–5, industry demonstrations, and spin-out potential.

Graduates from this program will be highly competitive for careers in photonics R&D, LiDAR and autonomous systems, medical imaging, defense, and academic instrumentation. You will leave with a portfolio of hardware prototypes, data analysis tools, and industry engagement experience.

Eligibility requires a degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Photonics, with interest in instrumentation, optics, and FPGA design. Programming experience (Python, SystemVerilog) is desirable but not essential, as training will be provided. The School of Physics and Astronomy is committed to diversity and inclusion, holding the Institute of Physics Juno Champion and Athena SWAN Silver Award, and encourages applications from under-represented groups.

Applications should be submitted via the University of Birmingham portal, including a CV, academic transcripts, and a 1-page statement of research interests. The start date is October 2026, and the application deadline is 16 April 2026. For informal enquiries, contact Dr Andre Kaplan at [email protected].