Dynamic Metasurfaces for Advanced Signal Processing

Supervisory Team: Dr Sajjad Taravati

Design and build software-controlled smart surfaces to shape wireless signals for advanced applications like analogue computation and next-generation communications. This experimental PhD will pioneer active metasurfaces that dynamically steer, process, and amplify electromagnetic waves, blending theoretical modelling, PCB design, and lab testing to create the foundation for future programmable radio environments.

This PhD project will research and build a new class of dynamic metasurfaces that use integrated electronic components to actively control electromagnetic waves, creating a foundation for smarter, more efficient technologies. This project aims to overcome the limitations of current passive systems by designing a dynamic metasurface architecture that integrates active transistor-based circuits directly with antenna elements. The core research problem is achieving full electronic software control over wavefronts to realise advaced signal processing, nonreciprocal amplification, dynamic 3D beamsteering, and intelligent wave routing. You will address this through a combination of electromagnetic simulation (e.g., COMSOL Multiphysics), theoretical modelling of wave-matter interactions in active systems, and practical microwave engineering. The work involves designing and fabricating printed circuit board (PCB) prototypes with custom metasurface unit cells, integrating electronic components to achieve amplification and phase-shifting, and experimentally characterising designs using a vector network analyser and anechoic chamber measurements to validate performance. This research matters because it will provide the foundational knowledge for future programmable wireless environments, significantly enhancing spectral efficiency and enabling novel applications. The project offers outstanding training in cutting-edge RF design, simulation, and experimental measurement techniques, with access to our state-of-the-art microwave labs and anechoic chamber.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31 December 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, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

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

• Programme type: Research

• Academic year: 2026/27

• If you will be full time or part time

• Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences

Search for programme PhD Electronic & Electrical Engineering (7092)

Please add the name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application.

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal

• your CV (resumé)

• 2 academic references

• degree transcripts/ certificates to date

• English language qualification (if applicable)

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