About the Project

Supervisory Team: Prof Corin Gawith and Prof James Gates

Nonlinear parametric photonics creates an interface between light and the atoms/ions and detectors used in quantum systems. This project combines novel fabrication approaches for nonlinear waveguides with established commercial materials to expand their operation into the ultra-violet and mid-infrared wavelength regions for use in practical quantum systems.

In this project you will have the opportunity to design, fabricate and test parametric devices and integrate these into larger quantum systems through collaboration with our interdisciplinary team of students, postdocs, senior researchers, and industrial partners. If you are looking to do computer modelling and have the required skills, the project can also be adjusted for this. Areas of research include:

development of blue/UV-generating parametric waveguides for the control of atom and ion trap systems. These will convert blue and UV light from infrared laser sources
investigating nonlinear waveguides for single/paired photon generation, including the use of coupled cavities to enhance efficiency. Applying this to develop prototype systems that can be used in photonic quantum computing
developing up-conversion devices to enable single photon imaging in the mid-infrared for environmental monitoring and life-science imaging

Each area involves design, fabrication, metrology, and optical testing, and work with our partners to apply these devices to quantum systems.

This project aligns closely with our research in the EPSRC Quantum Technology Hub for Sensing, Imaging and Timing (QuSIT). Our team offers a supportive environment for training and research, world-leading facilities and expertise, and extensive opportunities to collaborate with our industrial partners and academic researchers across the UK National Quantum Technology Programme. Find out more about our Optical Engineering and Quantum Photonics research group.

Entry requirements

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

If you are interested in quantum technologies, photonics, nonlinear optics, or micro-fabrication you would be highly suitable for this project.

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.

For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.

How to apply

Apply now

You need to:

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

Applications should include:

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

Nonlinear Photonics for Quantum Technologies

University of Southampton

University Rd, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK