Development of a Femtosecond Pump–Probe Microscope for Ultrafast Optical Studies

About the Project

This PhD project aims to design and build a femtosecond pump–probe microscope capable of monitoring photoluminescence (PL), reflection, and transmittance with sub-picosecond temporal resolution and micron-scale spatial precision. Such systems are at the forefront of ultrafast science, enabling direct observation of carrier dynamics, exciton formation, and energy transfer in advanced materials, including semiconductors, nanostructures, and quantum composites.

You will develop a table-top ultrafast optical platform integrating a femtosecond laser source, beam-splitting and delay-line optics, and a high-stability microscope stage. The system will incorporate spectrally tunable pump and probe beams, synchronised detection electronics, and advanced imaging optics to capture transient signals across multiple channels. This instrument will enable real-time mapping of ultrafast processes, including carrier relaxation, nonlinear absorption, and excitonic recombination.

What You’ll Do

• Design and assemble a femtosecond pump–probe microscope with PL, reflection, and transmission detection.
• Implement delay-line scanning for sub-picosecond time resolution and integrate spectrally tunable pump/probe sources.
• Develop data acquisition and control software (Python/Matlab; FPGA optional) for synchronised measurements.
• Characterise system performance using benchmark samples and apply it to cutting-edge materials (e.g., 2D semiconductors, nanoplasmonic composites).
• Explore advanced techniques such as polarisation-resolved pump–probe and multi-channel detection.

Training & Environment

• Hands-on experience with ultrafast lasers, nonlinear optics, and precision optomechanics.
• Access to state-of-the-art photonics labs and cleanroom facilities.
• Training in spectroscopy, data analysis, and instrument control.
• Collaboration with leading research groups and opportunities for international conferences.

Impact

The microscope will enable direct visualisation of ultrafast phenomena critical for next-generation optoelectronic devices, quantum materials, and photonic technologies. Your work will contribute to breakthroughs in energy conversion, high-speed photonics, and fundamental condensed matter physics.

Candidate Profile

• Background in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Photonics.
• Interest in ultrafast optics, instrumentation, and laser systems.
• Experience with optical alignment or programming desirable (training provided).

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The School of Physics and Astronomy is an Institute of Physics Juno Champion and holder of the Athena SWAN Silver Award, reflecting our commitment to diversity and equality. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, particularly from under-represented groups in physics.

How to Apply

Apply via the University of Birmingham portal with:

• CV
• Academic transcripts
• 1-page statement of research interests

Start date: October 2026

Informal enquiries: Dr Andre Kaplan – a.kaplan.1@bham.ac.uk