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University of Birmingham
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UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship
PhD Studentship in Single-Molecule Nanophotonics, Plasmonics and Molecular Frequency Upconversion University of Birmingham in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Funding is available for UK nationals. The post does not specify the stipend amount or whether tuition fees are covered.
Deadline
Jan 12, 2027
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Birmingham
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About this position
This PhD project explores single-molecule nanophotonics and plasmonics through the use of metallic nanocavities, metasurfaces and two-dimensional materials to confine light and enhance light–matter coupling at the nanoscale.
The research focuses on detecting and spectroscopically analysing mid-infrared signatures of individual molecules. Molecular vibrations provide chemical fingerprints, while molecular frequency upconversion converts absorbed mid-infrared photons into visible photons that can be detected with single-photon sensitivity at room temperature. The approach has potential applications in sensing, chemical analysis and biological imaging.
The student will investigate simultaneous confinement of mid-infrared and visible light in nanometre-scale gaps and determine how this dual confinement affects upconversion and detection efficiency. The work includes developing optical microscopy and spectroscopy systems spanning the visible to mid-infrared, studying temperature-dependent responses, and examining molecular vibrations, thermal population and noise.
Additional research will involve fabricating and self-assembling plasmonic nanocavities and exploring chiral and other tailored nanostructures. The project is hosted by Dr Rohit Chikkaraddy’s group within the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics Research Centre in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Birmingham. It offers a strongly multidisciplinary environment for researchers from physics, materials science and chemistry, with opportunities to develop an autonomous scientific profile alongside industrial links and scientific collaborations.
Funding details
Funding is available for UK nationals. The post does not specify the stipend amount or whether tuition fees are covered.
What's required
Applicants should have completed or be close to completing an undergraduate degree in Physics, Materials Science, Physical Chemistry or a related physical science, preferably with first-class honours or equivalent. Strong analytical and experimental skills are desired. Candidates from physics, materials science and chemistry are welcome.
How to apply
Apply through the jobs.ac.uk application page by clicking the application button. Clearly state the project title, supervisor Dr Rohit Chikkaraddy, and the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics Research Centre. Contact Dr Chikkaraddy by email for funding advice or informal enquiries.
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