Optoelectronic device integration for next-Generation photonic memories and neuromorphic computing

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Professor Dimitra Georgiadou and Professor Frederic Gardes

This project focuses on developing nanostructured optoelectronic devices for next-generation photonic memory and neuromorphic computing. You will design and fabricate brain-inspired nanoscale systems using advanced materials and nanopatterning, integrating them with photonic sources to realise high-speed, energy-efficient optoelectronic neural networks for future artificial intelligence (AI) and computing technologies.

This project offers an exciting opportunity to work on the cutting-edge design and development of nanoscale optoelectronic devices, specifically tailored for next-generation memory systems and neuromorphic computing applications. These are optoelectronic devices and systems that can realistically emulate biological neural networks.

In this project you will explore advanced materials and novel nanopatterning techniques to develop the next generation of nanodevices. High throughput fabrication of nanodevices on large areas will be pursued using organic and inorganic materials processed via solution-based or sputtering techniques. You will integrate these devices and arrays with photonic structures, serving as the optical source. This novel optoelectronic technology can effectively emulate synaptic weights and may be programmable both via light and voltage/current.

You will join the multi-disciplinary Flexible Nanoelectronics Lab, work at the world-class labs of the Optoelectronics Research Centre, while you will have the opportunity to build connections with UK and European research partners by being affiliated also with the UK Multidisciplinary Centre for Neuromorphic Computing. Additionally, you will be encouraged to attend major conferences, sharing your work and networking with leading experts.

The outcomes of your research can have various applications, such as Internet of Things and edge computing, AI, artificial vision, high density data storage for wearable devices, and many others. This project is a chance to contribute to emerging technologies with the potential to revolutionise data processing and computing, while gaining skills, recognition, and experience that will position you as a leader in the field of nanoelectronics and memory technology.

Entry requirements

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

• nanotechnology
• chemistry
• physics
• materials science
• engineering

The following work experience is desirable:

• clean room facilities
• optoelectronic device characterisation
• thin film characterisation (AFM, SEM, XRD, optical spectroscopies).

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)

Contact us

Project leader

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact D.Georgiadou@soton.ac.uk.