Quantum-Enhanced Mid-IR Spectroscopy for High-Precision Sensing

This PhD project, hosted at the University of Southampton within the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering, aims to develop a quantum-enhanced mid-infrared (mid-IR) sensing platform for high-precision environmental and biomedical diagnostics. The research will focus on integrating advanced materials, including Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs), Transition Metal Dichalcogenides (TMDCs), and metasurfaces, to create ultra-sensitive, real-time sensors capable of detecting low-concentration pollutants and disease biomarkers. TMDCs, known for their tunable optical properties, will be used to enhance light-matter interactions, while metasurfaces will amplify specific resonances to increase mid-IR detection sensitivity. The quantum sensors developed in this project will leverage phenomena such as coherence and superposition to detect subtle thermal changes resulting from mid-IR absorption, enabling rapid and precise screening for disease markers like cancer and environmental pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The project is highly multidisciplinary, drawing expertise from the Optoelectronics Research Centre, Electronics and Computer Science, and Engineering. Students will receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills, preparing them for careers in both academia and industry. The position is open to UK, EU, Horizon Europe, and international students, with UK students eligible for a competitive UKRI TechExpert stipend of approximately £31,000 per year for four years. Studentships at the UKRI base rate are available for EU and international applicants, and those with external funding are encouraged to apply. Applicants must hold at least a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent and submit a CV, two academic references, degree transcripts/certificates, and proof of English language proficiency if required. The University of Southampton is committed to equality, diversity, and sustainability, offering support for part-time study and personal circumstances. The application deadline for UK students is 31 July 2026, while international applicants must apply by 31 March 2026. For further information, prospective students are encouraged to contact Prof. Senthil Murugan Ganapathy.