(UoM - A* STAR) High throughput characterisation of novel materials for quantum photonic integrated circuitry Coventry University in United Kingdom

Photonic integrated circuitry is identified as a potential post-Moore’s law technology, with demonstrations in neuromorphic computing, AI/ML, and low-power communication. Waveguides, phase and amplitude control and highspeed detection componentry are now readily integrated at high yield, but high efficiency non-linear materials with integrated coherent light sources remain an outstanding challenge and an area of intense focus. While multiple solutions have been proposed for non-linear materials, back-end-of-line processible and reproducible materials remain elusive.

In this project, novel material systems, namely twisted 2D materials will be combined with nanoscale lithographic processes to produce a high-yield array of non-linear components. Preliminary studies on an emerging platform (NbOCl2) have shown that integration as suspended material can provided a 1.5 – 2x enhancement in non-linear coefficient (Figure 1), while integration with plasmonic metamaterials show the potential for greater gains. Recent research from other groups have shown that this material has the potential to act as a high-fidelity source of entangled photons through a down-conversion process [#], yet integration with metasurfaces remains unexplored. The interaction between these new materials and a metasurface must be understood and optimized to achieve homogeneous and repeatable devices.

The primary research question is whether plasmonic-integrated and twisted-heterostructure materials provide a robust and industrially relevant active material for photonic integrated circuitry. We intend to find optimal design, deposition, processing and fabrication parameters to produce a proof of principle laser device based on this technology platform. Specifically, we will deposit layered films onto integrated waveguide platforms. By using electron-beam lithography to pattern the films, resonators, waveguides, cavities and metasurfaces will be formed, which will be tested for non-linearity and damage threshold. The optimized structures will be tested using highthroughput and high-speed characterization developed in Manchester, in a design-for-yield process. Finally, high yield, optimized structures will be incorporated into full grating-coupled photonic chips for demonstration for on-chip optical computing.

The project will make use of resources available at Manchester (COMSOL, high resolution and sensitivity photoluminescence, micro-transient absorption spectroscopy, high-throughput automated testing) and A*STAR (materials synthesis, nanoimprint, electron-beam lithography and etching, coherence length measurements, secondand third-harmonic generation). The project will benefit from existing collaborations between these groups and more widely including the Australian National University (meta-optics, TMOS) and the University of Strathclyde (heterointegration)

Expected Start

October 2025

Before you Apply

We recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project on [email protected] and [email protected]

How to apply

To be considered for this project, you will need to complete an application here . Please read this page carefully before starting your application.

When you apply you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Personal Statement
• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• English Language certificate
• 2 details of academic referees

In your application, include the project title (UoM - A* STAR) High throughput characterisation of novel materials for quantum photonic integrated circuitry , supervisor Dr Patrick Parkinson , and funding source Split Site ASTAR and University of Manchester Select the PhD Physics in the programme detail section.

Applications missing required documents won’t be considered. If documents are unavailable or for further application question please email, email [email protected] .

Eligibility

1. Hold (or expect to achieve) a First Class or 2:1 UK honours degree (or international equivalent to be checked with The University of Manchester admission team).

2. Ideally hold a master’s-level qualification at merit or distinction (or international equivalent to be checked with The University of Manchester admission team).

3. Demonstrable excellent communication skills, including in English language, a proficiency in which should be demonstrably indicated by meeting the requirements as indicated on the University's English language requirements page and in particular securing a minimum IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in writing and listening, and 5.5 in all other sub-tests OR securing a TOEFL iBT score of at least 90 with no sub-tests below 20 OR equivalent. Project supervisor teams may recommend a candidate who has excellent English language skills but otherwise has not formal certification of such. Please note that a timely demonstrable minimum English language level is a requirement of the UK Home Office for the issue of student visas to the UK. For some projects an ATAS certificate may also be required by them.

4. Demonstrate willingness to travel to two partner institutions to complete the programme.

5. Demonstrate to reflect the Faculty of Science and Engineering Postgraduate Researcher person specification.

* Educational background matches research project.

* Potential to form effective working relationships with a diverse range of people, including working inclusively and as part of a team.

* Potential to take the initiative, lead on projects, and be proactive in prioritising a dynamic, agile and diverse workload.

* Potential to develop understanding of complex problems, evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a given scenario, and apply in-depth knowledge to address them.

* Potential to develop expertise in new areas of the subject.

* Evidence of an understanding of the proposed area of research, including knowledge of current challenges and opportunities.

* An interest in continuous personal and professional development.

* Potential to communicate ideas and conclusions, verbally and in writing, clearly and effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

* Preliminary knowledge of research techniques/track record of engaging with research.

* Commitment to principles of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in teaching, research, or experience.

Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to The University of Manchester’s success. Diversity strengthens our research community, enhancing creativity, productivity, quality, and impact. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, or transgender status.

We also welcome those returning from a career break. Flexible study arrangements (part-time: 50%, 60%, or 80%, depending on the project/funder) may be considered.

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