Fully Funded PhD Positions in Photonic Sensing Technology and Metamaterials at University of Exeter University of Exeter in United Kingdom

Two fully funded PhD positions are available at the University of Exeter, focusing on the development of next-generation photonic sensing technology. The projects are ideal for students with backgrounds in Physics, Engineering, or Natural Sciences who are passionate about multidisciplinary experimental science, nanofabrication, photonics (especially electromagnetism), imaging, sensing, and the development of novel instrumentation. The research aims to create meaningful technologies with societal impact.

PhD Project 1: Miniaturised mid-infrared sensing of environmental exposures using 3D-printed photonic metamaterials. This project will explore advanced materials and fabrication techniques to enable sensitive environmental monitoring.

PhD Project 2: Pushing the frontier of ultrasensitive on-chip sensing with advanced metamaterials for Surface-Enhanced Infrared Absorption (SEIRA) sensing. The focus is on developing new metamaterial structures for highly sensitive detection applications.

Supervision will be provided by Dr. Calum Williams (University of Exeter), Adam Polak (Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics UK), Prof. Geoff Nash (Exeter), and Prof. Isaac Luxmoore (Exeter). The projects are supported by EPSRC DLA funding, which covers tuition and provides a stipend. The start date is September 2026, and the application deadline is January 12, 2026.

For more information and application instructions, visit the University of Exeter's official page or contact Dr. Calum Williams. These positions offer an excellent opportunity to work at the intersection of photonics, materials science, and engineering, contributing to innovative sensing technologies.