Applications are invited for a three-year Postgraduate studentship, supported by the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies at Aston University. Optical frequency comb (OFC) is a breakthrough photonic technology that has already revolutionised a range of scientific and industrial fields. In the family of OFC technologies, dual-comb spectroscopy plays a unique role as the most advanced platform, combining conventional and laser spectroscopy strengths. The project will explore different approaches to achieve versatility in repetition rates and/or comb optical characteristics as dictated by the diversity of applications. We invite academically outstanding PhD candidates to conduct world-class experimental and theoretical research in this rapidly growing research area. The ideal candidate will have experience in the experimental development and characterisation of mode-locked fibre and/or semiconductor lasers and/or optical supercontinuum sources. Experience with quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) in the mid-infrared (mid-IR) range is highly desirable, as well as expertise in the full range of characterisation techniques for pulsed and continuous-wave (CW) lasers, including autocorrelation measurements, frequency-resolved optical gating, phase and relative intensity noise measurements.The successful candidate will be involved in the development of various optical frequency comb sources, including tunable dual-comb laser sources based on mode-locked fibre lasers and vertical external-cavity surface-emitting lasers. Successful applicant will be involved in the development of mid-IR OFC spectrometers for various practical applications.Research EnvironmentThe Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies (AIPT) is the one of largest photonic centres in the UK. It hosts a diverse research community working on a vast range of photonic engineering topics, including optical communications, theory and modelling of lasers and optical systems dynamics, optical sensing, fibre and semiconductor lasers, bio-photonics, and nanoscale optics. The PhD student will benefit from the world class experimental and computing infrastructure and facilities and will be exposed to an interdisciplinary working culture. The PhD student will participate in state-of-the-art training activities organised by AIPT and will have the possibility of interacting with numerous AiPT UK and international, academic and industrial partners.Person SpecificationThe successful applicant should have been awarded, or expect to achieve, a Masters degree in a relevant subject with a 60% or higher weighted average, and/or a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (or an equivalent qualification from an overseas institution) in a relevant subject. Preferred skill requirements include knowledge/experience of optical frequency combs, fibre lasers, semiconductor lasers or supercontinuum sources.We would particularly like to encourage applications from women seeking to progress their academic careers. Aston University is committed to the principles of the Athena SWAN Charter, recognised recently by a prestigious Silver Award to EPS, and we pride ourselves on our vibrant, friendly and supportive working environment and family atmosphere.Contact informationFor formal enquiries about this project contact Prof. Sergei K. Turitsyn at [email protected] an applicationWe can only consider applications that are complete and have all supporting documents. Applications that do not provide all the relevant documents will be automatically rejected. Your application must include: 1.   English language copies of the transcripts and certificates for all your higher education degrees, including any Bachelor degrees.2.   A Research Statement detailing your understanding of the research area, how you would approach the project, and a brief review of relevant literature. Be sure to use the title of the research project you are applying for. There is no set format or word count. 3.   A personal statement which outlines any further information which you think is relevant to your application, such as your personal suitability for research, career aspirations, possible future research interests, and further description of relevant employment experience. 4.   Two academic referees who can discuss your suitability for independent research. References must be on headed paper, signed and dated no more than 2 years old. At least one reference should be from your most recent University. You can submit your references at a later date if necessary. 5.   Evidence that you meet the English Language requirements. If you do not currently meet the language requirements, you can submit this at a later stage. 6.   A copy of your passport. Where relevant, include evidence of settled or pre-settled status.Apply for this position hereAlternatively, apply here. Please select “Research - Electrical, Electronic and Power Engineering” from the application form options.If you require further information about the application process, please contact the Postgraduate Admissions team at [email protected]