Next-Generation UV-Visible Guiding Hollow-Core Fibres

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Dr Ian Davidson, Dr Gregory Jasion and Professor Francesco Poletti

Are you passionate about photonics, optical fibres, and materials science? Join the Hollow-Core Fibre Group at the University of Southampton to help shape the future of optical fibres through the development of ultra-low loss hollow-core optical fibres (HCFs) for the UV-visible spectrum.

HCFs represent a transformative technology for a wide range of applications, including quantum computing, lithography, advanced manufacturing, navigation, biomedicine, environmental/gas sensing, and process monitoring. Their ability to guide light in air rather than glass offers unprecedented optical performance, making them ideal for both fundamental research and real-world applications.

In this PhD project, you will:

• contribute to the design, fabrication, and characterisation of novel UV-visible guiding HCFs targeting record-low optical attenuation.
• explore the underlying physics that governs their performance, using both theoretical modelling and experimental techniques.

Working in the world-class fibre fabrication facilities at the University of Southampton, gaining hands-on experience producing and working with state-of-the-art hollow-core fibres that will push the boundaries of what is currently possible. This is a highly collaborative project, supported by our world-class team, offering opportunities to work with researchers across the University and internationally. The fibres you develop will be used by a broad community of scientists, enabling you to engage with diverse applications and disciplines – potentially from quantum technology to environmental monitoring.

During your PhD you will receive support and training from our world-class to help you develop your research career and achieve ground-breaking results.

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants from a wide range of physical science backgrounds, including physics, materials science, chemistry, electrical engineering, and photonics. If you are curious, motivated, and excited by the prospect of working at the forefront of optical fibre technology, then we want to hear from you. Experience in glass science and experimental work is a plus but not essential, as fully training will be provided by our team.

You'll also need a very good undergraduate degree (at least 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. 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

Apply now

Using the application portal, select:

• 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)