Energy-efficient multicore fibre amplifiers for future submarine networks

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Dr Yongmin Jung and Dr Sijing Liang

This PhD project develops next-generation multicore fibre amplifiers for sustainable submarine networks. The research combines simulation and experiment to create energy-efficient, high-capacity amplification technologies that reduce power consumption, cost per bit, and enhance future global communication infrastructure.

Optical fibre networks form the backbone for the global internet, carrying over 99% of the world’s data at the speed of light and driving the digital transformation of modern society and industry. As global data demand continue to surge, multicore fibres (MCFs) – fibres containing multiple independent cores within a single cladding – have emerged as the most promising solution to replace conventional bundles of single mode fibres.

MCF cables have started deployment in transoceanic systems, making a paradigm shift in subsea communications. In submarine networks, where both electrical power and space are extremely limited, amplifier efficiency directly constrains overall data capacity. Developing energy-efficient MCF amplifiers is therefore a crucial step toward enabling the next generation of sustainable, high-capacity communication systems.

This PhD project aims to develop next-generation MCF amplifier and component technologies that minimise power consumption, reduce cost per bit, and enhancing overall system capacity.

The research will explore advanced space division multiplexing (SDM) techniques to realise scalable, energy-efficient amplification architectures optimised for long-haul subsea operation.

The project builds on the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) world-leading track record in SDM and amplifier innovation, including:

• development of the world’s first multimode erbium-doped fibre amplifiers
• achievement of a GUINNESS World Record for the highest-capacity SDM transmission
• recipient of the EU HORIZON prize for breakthroughs in optical transmission
• commercialization of SDM amplifier technologies with industry partners.

The successful candidate will perform both simulation and experimental research within state-of-the-art ORC facilities, collaborating with industry leaders (e.g., Corning and NTT), to advance the future of global submarine communication networks.

Entry requirements

You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent.

Fees and funding

Full scholarships include tuition fees, a stipend at the UKRI rate plus 10% ORC enhancement tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years (totalling £22,858 for 2025/26, rising annually) and a budget of £4200 for things like conference travel. UK, EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for scholarships. Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC) students are eligible for fee waivers.

Funding for other international applicants is very limited and highly competitive. Overseas students who have secured or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.

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 now

• 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 ORC (7097)
• please add the name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application.

Applications should include:

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

Contact us

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

If you have a general question, email: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

Project leader

For an initial conversation, email Dr Yongmin Jung (ymj@orc.soton.ac.uk).