This project is part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering at the University of Southampton https://qte.ac.uk/ ). In addition to the research project outlined below you will receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.

In this project we will develop novel ways to interconnect a new class of optical fibres with single photon sources and detectors used in quantum memories, computers and networks. The Optoelectronics Research Centre is world-leader (activity led by Prof. F. Poletti, a co-supervisor of this project) in design and manufacturing of these novel fibres that guide light through a hole (hence the name, hollow core fibres) rather than through glass.

Optical fibres can transport light over long distances with very low loss. However, transporting quantum bits (qubits) using photons suffers from the interaction of the qubits with the glass through which the light propagates in traditional optical fibres. Qubits are also often generated at wavelengths where optical fibres do not have low attenuation, severely reducing the distance over which they can be transported.

Hollow core fibres are an emerging class of optical fibres in which light is guided by a hole surrounded by a special glass structure. This allows light guidance through a core that has lower refractive index than the surrounding material, enabling the core to be formed by empty space. This is not possible in traditional fibres that guide light based on total internal reflection. Recently, design and manufacturing of hollow core fibres reached such a level that they can transport light with lower attenuation than standard optical fibres and can have this low attenuation at wavelengths unachievable by traditional fibres.

In this project we will develop novel ways to physically interconnect hollow core fibres with single photon sources and detectors used in quantum memories, computers and networks.

The project is supported by a collaboration with Microsoft Azure.

For more information please contact the supervisor: Prof. Radan Slavik [email protected]

Supervisory Team

Prof Radan Slavik, Prof. Francesco Poletti, Dr. Yongmin Jung

Entry Requirements

Undergraduate degree (at least UK 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent)

Closing date

Applications are accepted throughout the year for a start date in September 2025. Overseas students requiring funding must apply before 31 March 2025.

Funding

Funding on a competitive basis. For UK students, tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI rate tax-free for 4 years. EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for scholarships. Overseas students who have secured or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.

How to apply

Apply online here : Select programme type “Research”, “Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences”, next page select “PhD Quantum Tech Eng”. In Section 2 of the application form insert the name of the supervisor.

Applications should include

Applications should include (further details on https://qte.ac.uk/phd-opportunities/ ): Personal statement; Curriculum Vitae; Contacts of two referees; Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date.

We are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity and give full consideration to applicants seeking part-time study. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.