Advanced beam shaping for next-generation fibre lasers

Supervisory Team: Dr Yongmin Jung and Prof. Michalis Zervas

This project focuses on developing advanced fibre designs and novel devices for programmable spatial and polarization beam shaping, pushing the boundaries of fibre laser performance and versatility.

Fibre lasers are revolutionizing the field of laser technology, providing unmatched stability without the need for moving parts or mirrors, making them an ideal solution for next-generation laser systems. This project is part of the UK’s EPSRC funded Programme Grant, HiPPo project, which aims to revolutionize fibre lasers by integrating artificial intelligence (AI).

As a key contributor in this cutting-edge project, you will work alongside leading researchers at the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) and collaborate with global industry leaders, including Trumpf Laser, TWI, and Microsoft. Your contributions will include:

• designing and implementing advanced beam and polarization shaping techniques to optimize fibre laser systems
• conducting experimental and simulation-based evaluations to validate and refine these technologies
• collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to transition your innovations into real-world applications
• exploring AI-driven control mechanisms for dynamic beam shaping and polarization modulation, enabling rapid, precise adjustments

You’ll be part of the Pulsed Fibre Laser Group (~10 researchers) and the Hippo project (~25 researchers), both housed within the world-leading ORC. This dynamic and collaborative environment provides access to cutting-edge facilities, mentorship from academic experts, and engagement with industrial partners. You’ll work on ground-breaking research with real-world impacts, particularly in laser material processing.

This project is ideal if you’re eager to contribute to the future of laser technology and explore the powerful capabilities of fibre lasers.

Entry Requirements

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent.

Closing date: 31 July 2026. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students.

Competition-based Presidential Bursaries from the University cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants.

Competition-based studentships offered by our schools typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants.

Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk)

You need to:

• choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• select Full time or Part time
• search for programme PhD ORC (7097)
• add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk