Optimising optical microresonators for quantum technology applications

About the Project

Supervisors:

Dr Peter Horak peh@orc.soton.ac.uk

Dr William Hughes W.J.Hughes@soton.ac.uk

This project, within the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering at the University of Southampton (https://qte.ac.uk), carries a UKRI TechExpert enhanced annual stipend around £31k for UK students. While researching the project outlined below you will also receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.

Project Description:

Join our dynamic research team to explore cutting-edge microscale optical resonator designs for quantum technologies. This PhD will combine photonics, quantum physics, and computational modelling to design devices that enhance the interaction between matter and light on the quantum level to unlock new capabilities in quantum computing, communication, and sensing.

Optical microresonators - devices that trap photons between microscopic mirrors - are key to enhancing the interaction between light and quantum emitters, such as atoms, ions, or nonlinear crystals. They are considered a crucial technology for future more efficient and faster quantum interactions. Traditionally, these mirrors have spherical shapes; however, we have recently shown that if the shape of the mirrors is optimised, the trapped photons can create strong interference patterns that lead to a dramatic increase of their localisation in space, vastly beyond what is currently achievable. In this project, you will develop and perform numerical simulations to take this powerful approach further and investigate its full potential by optimising these novel resonator designs, tailoring the spatial shape of photons for a range of quantum applications such as: • Trapped ion chains for quantum computing. • Neutral atom arrays for quantum simulation. • Entangled photon sources for quantum communication. • Micro-optomechanical systems for quantum sensing. • Single-photon wavelength conversion for hybrid quantum networks. If you are interested in photonics, quantum technology, and computer-based modelling (potentially including machine learning techniques), you would be highly suitable for this project. You will benefit from our world-leading expertise and a collaborative, supportive research environment. You will also have the opportunity to work in close collaboration with experimental groups within the University of Southampton and the QCi3 National Quantum Technology Hub (https://qci3.org/).

For more information, please contact the supervisor: Dr Peter Horak peh@orc.soton.ac.uk

Entry Requirements:

Undergraduate degree (at least UK 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent).

Closing Date:

31 July 2026. International applicants must apply before 31 March 2026.

Funding:

See funding notes below.

How to Apply:

Please apply via the online portal and select:

• Programme type: Research
• Academic year: 2026/27
• Full time or part time
• Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences

Search for programme PhD Quantum Tech Eng

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)