Hollow core optical fibres embedded with chalcogenide 2D materials

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Dr Pier Sazio and Dr Ioannis Zeimpekis

Hollow core anti-resonant fibres (ARFs) enable strong light-matter interaction through functional material deposition. This PhD project advances composite material ARF (CM-ARF) technology using 2D materials and chalcogenides for photonic applications, combining cleanroom fabrication, device characterization, and simulations—ideal for candidates with physics, materials, or engineering backgrounds.

Hollow core optical fibre waveguide geometries are becoming increasingly relevant to modern telecommunications systems, an exemplar of which is the anti-resonant fibre (ARF) structure, which can guide light in the air core using a variety of cladding architectures. Intriguingly, the high internal surface area presented by this waveguide geometry offers an ideal material deposition template for strong light-matter interaction and to this end, we have developed world leading knowledge and expertise in deposition technologies that allow a wide variety of functional materials such as semiconductors and metals to be embedded within these air-silica structures.

More recently, we have explored the extraordinary properties of atomically thin two-dimensional (2D) materials within ARF structures, opening up exciting opportunities for next-generation photonic and optoelectronic devices and applications at the monolayer limit.

In this PhD studentship, the candidate will further develop this novel composite material ARF (CM-ARF) technology, spanning the multidisciplinary remit between cleanroom based, 2D materials and bulk chalcogenide fibre integration technology for the highly innovative CM-ARF platform, with applications in active photon management and light processing functions. Analysis of device properties will be performed in our fully equipped characterization laboratories, complemented by numerical simulation studies to complete the development cycle.

This photonic device technology and materials science driven project would thus be suitable for a highly motivated candidate with a strong physics/materials/engineering related background and programming abilities to develop highly transferable skills in cleanroom sample fabrication and electronic/photonic device characterisation, numerical simulations working with leading academic experts.

Entry requirements

You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent in one of the following or related disciplines:

• physics
• materials science
• engineering

Ideally you'll have:

• programming abilities to develop cleanroom sample fabrication and electronic/photonic device characterisation
• numerical simulations skills

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. 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.

How to apply

You need to:

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

Applications should include:

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