"EPSRC DLA Studentship - Advanced Semiconductor Design for Future Telecom Applications"

University of Cambridge - Department of Engineering

This project will investigate novel semiconductor technologies to underpin next-generation advanced connectivity systems, including transition to photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for telecoms and non-terrestrial networks (NTN). Drawing on the Department of Science Innovation and Technology report's identification of semiconductors as a key physical layer enabler of 'advanced connectivity technologies' (ACT) within the UK telecoms ecosystem, the aim is to design and characterise a prototype semiconductor device tailored for high-bandwidth, high performance connectivity in future network infrastructure.

The research will employ a combination of semiconductor device modelling, semiconductor simulation (by imec), electrical/optical characterisation, and system-level simulation of link performance. The work will also include techno-economic assessment, steered by imec, to situate the device within the ecosystem described in the UK's Advanced Connectivity Technologies (ACT) plan.

The research will combine computational design, experiments, and system-level evaluation in a phased approach, focusing particularly on novel devices such as optical beam steering in PIC with CMOS-based control as a critical enabler for advanced connectivity.

We expect to develop a working proof-of-concept semiconductor design that demonstrates enhanced performance metrics (e.g., data-rate, power-efficiency) compared to current state-of-the-art as well as new capabilities such as electrical beam steering and integrated CMOS control. The project will deliver academic publications, a patent-ready device concept and an industry-focused deployment roadmap.

EPSRC DLA studentships are available for eligible home students and a limited number of international students.

Applicants should have (or expect to obtain by the start date) at least a good 2.1 preferably a 1st-class honours degree in electrical engineering, physics, math, or a closely related discipline. A good knowledge or experience of semiconductor devices, photonics, or communication systems (preferably hands-on lab experience) is required.

To apply for this studentship, please send your two page CV to Iman Tavakkolnia (it360@cam.ac.uk) as soon as possible. Applications may close early if the position is filled before this date.

Please note that any offer of funding will be conditional on securing a place as a PhD student. Candidates will need to apply separately for admission through the University's Graduate Admissions application portal; this can be done before or after applying for this funding opportunity. Please note that there is a £20 fee for applications. The applicant portal can be accessed via the above 'Apply' button. The final deadline for PhD applications is 14 May 2026, although it is advisable to apply earlier than this.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.